As Memphis football begins preparations for the 2025 season, one thing is already clear: the identity of this team may not be found through the air, but on the ground. While much of the offseason discourse has centered around the uncertainty at quarterback and wide receiver, head coach Ryan Silverfield has consistently pointed to one area of stability — the running back room.
Describing it as one of the offense’s most well-rounded and dependable units, Silverfield has placed an early spotlight on a group that brings talent, experience, leadership, and versatility. With the team breaking in a new quarterback and a receiver corps described as a “grab bag,” Memphis may need its running backs more than ever to set the tone in 2025.
A Trio of Trusted Playmakers
The Tigers are set to unleash a deep, dynamic backfield rotation led by Sutton Smith, Greg Desrosiers Jr., and Middle Tennessee transfer Frank Peasant. It’s a trio that gives the offense everything it needs — explosiveness, power, finesse, and reliability.
Smith, perhaps the most intriguing of the three, returns after missing most of the 2024 season with a torn ACL. But before his injury, Smith flashed star potential. His ability to turn upfield in a heartbeat and make defenders miss in space gives Memphis a home-run threat every time he touches the ball. The coaching staff has closely monitored his recovery, and early practice reports suggest he has regained confidence and burst.
Greg Desrosiers Jr., a transfer from UMass, came on strong toward the end of last season. He racked up meaningful yards in critical late-season moments and could handle a significant workload. Desrosiers blends downhill power with open-field elusiveness, making him a perfect between-the-tackles option and short-yardage workhorse.
Then there’s Frank Peasant, a veteran who led Middle Tennessee in rushing before arriving in Memphis. Peasant brings an edge to the backfield — a no-nonsense, physical runner who excels at reading blocks and falling forward for extra yardage. His experience in C-USA play adds even more depth to the room, especially with the Tigers navigating a loaded conference schedule.
Together, these three backs form what could be one of the most complete running back units in the American Conference.
Memphis is undergoing a major transition on offense. Starting quarterback Seth Henigan, three top wide receivers, the starting tight end, and three offensive linemen are all gone. That’s a massive chunk of production to replace in one offseason — and that means the Tigers’ ability to generate consistent offense may rely heavily on the ground game.
With new quarterback Brendon Lewis (or another potential starter) still learning the system and building chemistry with a revamped receiver room, the running game will be the offense’s stabilizer. Offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey, now entering his fourth year in the role, is willing to lean on the run when needed. In 2024, Memphis averaged 187.6 rushing yards per game, including several outings where the ground game dominated time of possession and wore down opposing defenses.
In 2025, expect the same approach, especially early in the season. Road games at Georgia State (September 6) and Troy (September 13) will immediately test Memphis’ offensive identity.
If the passing game isn’t firing on all cylinders by then, the Tigers will need to control tempo, pick up first downs, and chew the clock. That’s exactly what this backfield is built to do.
What separates Memphis’ running back room in 2025 isn’t just talent — it’s leadership. Silverfield has already mentioned that the group has taken on a leadership role within the offense.
“From day one, just OTAs this summer, you could just see that as a group, as a room that we’ve taken on a leadership role within the whole offense,” said Desrosiers. “And I feel like a lot of people trust in us. Offensive coordinator Tim Cramsey trusts us. The quarterbacks, tight ends, and the O-line. So I feel like that room’s definitely a special room.”
That trust matters. With the offensive line still being retooled and the receiver depth chart wide open, having a consistent, vocal unit that leads by example goes a long way in keeping the team focused and disciplined. Sutton Smith has also become a mentor to younger players like Makari Bodiford, another physical back who could play a valuable short-yardage role this fall.
The Numbers Could Tell the Story
While Memphis may not have a 1,200-yard back like some Power Four schools, this team doesn’t need one bell cow. It requires consistent production and big-play capability — both of which this trio can deliver. It’s not unrealistic to project all three main backs contributing 600+ yards each, especially if Memphis commits to a rotation that keeps legs fresh and defenses guessing.
In 2024, Memphis controlled time of possession with an average of 33:14 per game. If the Tigers want to maintain or improve that number, the running backs will be front and center. Expect this group to be involved in traditional run plays and screen passes, option looks, and red zone packages.
As the Tigers shift into American Conference action later in the season, the importance of the run game will only grow. Programs like Navy, South Florida, and Tulane each bring different defensive looks that require patience, discipline, and physicality in the trenches.
In particular, the November 27 matchup against Navy stands out. Facing the Midshipmen’s methodical triple-option offense means limiting possessions, which makes controlling the clock essential. Memphis must run the ball well to keep Navy off the field.
The November 7 game against Tulane may also be a ground-and-pound slugfest, depending on weather, quarterback play, and defensive matchups. Having a confident, deep, and productive backfield gives Memphis a huge edge in close contests, especially late in the year when playoff hopes are on the line.
The 2025 Memphis Tigers don’t have all the answers yet. The wide receiver room is wide open. The quarterback position is still developing. The offensive line is adjusting to new faces. But in the backfield, they have answers and a clear identity.
Sutton Smith’s speed, Greg Desrosiers’ all-around reliability, and Frank Peasant’s physicality offer a three-headed monster that could drive the Tigers back to the American title game and into the Group of Five Playoff conversation. While the headlines may go to quarterbacks and receivers across the country, Memphis might be a rare case where the running backs steal the spotlight.
If that happens, it won’t be by accident; it’ll result from a deliberate plan built around the Tigers’ most trustworthy position group. Memphis’ backfield may be the answer in a season filled with questions.
Show Your Support
Show your support for the Memphis Wire on Sports View 360 by exploring and purchasing licensed NCAA fan gear. From stylish Memphis hats, jerseys, and t-shirts to cozy socks and much more, our collection offers a range of options to showcase your team spirit. By purchasing through the text link provided below, you contribute to the funding of the Sports View 360 platform, enabling us to continue providing comprehensive coverage and engaging content. If interested, click the link below and browse our Memphis Tigers fan gear selection. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Memphis Tigers Fan Gear Offers from Fanatics.com
