With a new head coach, a reworked roster and expectations that Memphis will again be in the thick of the AAC race, Spring Fest 2026 comes with no shortage of intrigue. Here are five things to watch when the Tigers take the field.
Five Things to Watch at Memphis Spring Fest
1. The Quarterback Pecking Order
The main storyline is obvious: who takes control at quarterback. Memphis has multiple contenders on campus, including new arrivals and at least one returning passer, and this is the first time fans will get an extended, public look at the competition.
In a practice‑style format, the staff can drop the quarterbacks into very specific situations – third‑and‑long, red zone, backed‑up, two‑minute – and see how they respond. Watch who gets the earliest snaps with the top offensive line and skill group, who looks most comfortable with protections and checks, and who maintains composure when the defense brings pressure. The depth chart will remain fluid through the summer, but Saturday should offer a clear sense of where things stand.
2. Huff’s Offensive Identity
One of the biggest reasons to come to Spring Fest is to see what a Charles Huff offense, led by Kevin Decker, actually looks like in Memphis colors. His background suggests a blend of physical running, tempo, and creativity with formations.
Pay attention to how the Tigers use their running backs, is there a true primary ball‑carrier, or does the staff rotate two or three regularly? Do backs motion out as receivers or get targeted on screens? At receiver, note how often the offense takes vertical shots versus working the quick game. Watch the usage of tight ends: when they are attached to the formation, flexed into the slot or split out wide, it says a lot about how this staff wants to attack matchups.
3. A New‑Look Defense Under Lance Guidry
On defense, Lance Guidry brings an attacking mindset and a reputation for making offenses uncomfortable. Spring Fest will give fans a first sense of that identity.
Look at the defensive front during team periods: how often are linemen slanting or stunting, and are edge players being used primarily as rushers or asked to drop into coverage occasionally? At linebacker, watch communication – hand signals, checks, aligning the front – as much as big hits. In the secondary, keep an eye on how much man coverage versus zone is being called, and how aggressively corners challenge receivers at the line.
If the defense looks organized pre‑snap and rallies to the ball post‑snap, that is a positive sign this early in a new system.
4. Transfer Impact and Depth Everywhere
Like most modern programs, Memphis leaned heavily on the portal to reshape its roster. Spring Fest is the first chance for fans to see many of those newcomers in person.
Beyond the obvious skill spots, the offensive line is a key area to watch. New additions up front will be asked to stabilize protection and help re‑establish a consistently physical running game. On the defensive side, new faces along the line and in the back seven will be battling with returners for roles in the two‑deep.
Special teams periods often reveal who the staff trusts athletically and mentally. When punt and kickoff units are on the field, take note of which new players are on those units. Those names often become significant contributors by mid‑season.
5. The Connection Between Program and City
Finally, pay attention to everything that happens around the football. Spring Fest is intentionally built as a community event: no ticket cost, free parking, open tailgating, live music, contests, kids activities and an open‑field session after practice.
The post‑practice on‑field access might be the most meaningful period of the day. It is one thing for a staff to talk about embracing Memphis; it is another for coaches and players to stay on the turf, shake hands, take photos and listen. How long people linger after the last whistle – both on the field and in the stands – will say a lot about how this new era is resonating.
