Silverfield Appointed as New Hogs Head Coach
Ryan Silverfield has been appointed as the new head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks, marking the 35th leadership change in the program’s history. Known for his impressive record, Silverfield comes from Memphis, where he achieved notable success over the past three seasons.
Career Highlights
Since taking over the Memphis Tigers in December 2019, Silverfield has led the team to a 50-25 record. His tenure included significant milestones, such as:
- Achieving back-to-back ten-win seasons in 2023 and 2024.
- Maintaining bowl eligibility for six consecutive years.
- Leading Memphis to 12 straight bowl appearances, the longest streak among non-Power 4 programs in the U.S.
Recent Season Performance
In the 2024 season, Memphis posted an 11-2 record, winning the Frisco Bowl against West Virginia. This achievement marked the first time in the program’s history that it secured two consecutive ten-win seasons. Additionally, the team was ranked in the Coaches Poll and the AP Poll, finishing at No. 23 and No. 24, respectively.
Offensive Prowess
Under Silverfield’s guidance, the Tigers had a robust offensive performance, ranking No. 19 in the FBS with an average of 34.6 points per game. This marks the fourth consecutive season Memphis ended up in the Top 25 for scoring. All six of his teams at Memphis averaged over 30 points per game.
Defensive Improvement
The defense also showcased significant advancements over the last three seasons. This year, Memphis allowed an average of just 22.5 points per game, ranking third-best in the American Conference. The squad’s efficiency was bolstered by 19 forced turnovers, highlighting their strong defensive play.
Coaching Philosophy and Vision
Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Hunter Yurachek emphasized Silverfield’s shared vision of making the College Football Playoffs. His proven track record and familiarity with the region make him an ideal choice for fostering the Razorbacks’ future success.
Background and Experience
Before his head coach role, Silverfield held several positions at Memphis, including offensive line coach and Deputy Head Coach. His experience spans over 18 years, including roles in the NFL and at various college programs.
Personal Life
Silverfield is originally from Jacksonville, Florida, and played at The Bolles School, where he was part of two state championship teams. He and his wife, Katie, are proud parents of twin daughters, Adeline and Celicia.
Looking Ahead
As Silverfield steps into his new role with the Arkansas Razorbacks, the expectations are high. His strong leadership and proven success in college football position him well to elevate the program’s performance in the coming seasons.