HOUSTON, August 31, 2026 — University of Memphis head coach Charles Huff has been named Paul “Bear” Bryant National Coach of the Week following the Tigers’ season-opening 27-21 win over UNLV at Allegiant Stadium.
The win helped Huff become the first Tigers head coach to win a road debut game.
The American Heart Association, a relentless force changing the future of health for everyone everywhere, presents the Bear Bryant Awards annually to celebrate excellence in coaching, to honor Coach Bryant’s legacy and to raise awareness and critical funds for its mission. The coaching legend died from a heart attack in 1983, just 28 days after his final victory and retirement.
UNLV led 14-7 at the half and took a 21-14 lead with 10:16 to play in the third quarter, but Memphis responded on the ensuing possession, tying the game after a 36-yard touchdown run by Jaylin Carter. Phillippe Laforge booted a pair of field goals down the stretch to set the final score at the 27-21 margin.
Marcus Stokes went 15-for-26 in his Memphis debut, passing for 223 yards and two scores, while Carter totaled 97 yards rushing. Zach Ruffin and Mike Montgomery anchored the defense with 13 and 10 tackles, respectively, while the Tigers defense picked up six quarterback sacks led by a 2.5 sack performance by Elijah Kinsler.
Memphis returns to action on Saturday, Sept. 5, hosting Arkansas State at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in a 6 p.m. kickoff.
Each week through the remainder of the season, the Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards will recognize a coach for leading their team to an exceptional victory. The Paul “Bear” Bryant National Coach of the Week is chosen by a committee of national college football media members.
Fans can follow the lead up to January’s annual Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards Ceremony at facebook.com/bryantawards, x.com/bryantawards or Instagram.com/bryantawards or the hashtag #BryantAwards. To attend the exclusive, VIP experience visit bryantawards.org.
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