Memphis Tigers Set for Thanksgiving Showdown Against Navy for Second Straight Year
Memphis football fans will need to adjust their Thanksgiving plans once again, as the Tigers are set to host Navy on Thanksgiving Day at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium.
The American Athletic Conference (AAC) confirmed the matchup on Monday, solidifying Memphis’ place in a prime-time holiday football slot.
Originally, the game was scheduled for either Thanksgiving or the following day, but now, the Tigers will take center stage on one of the biggest football days of the year.
This marks the second consecutive year that Memphis will play on Thanksgiving. Last season, the Tigers wrapped up their regular season with a victory over Tulane in New Orleans.
The AAC has strategically positioned this game to fill the gap left by the Egg Bowl, the long-standing rivalry game between Ole Miss and Mississippi State.
Traditionally played on Thanksgiving, the Egg Bowl was moved to Friday last year and is scheduled for Saturday this season.
With the conference’s latest announcement, it’s unlikely that Ole Miss and Mississippi State will return to their Thanksgiving slot anytime soon.
Given the high viewership numbers from last year’s Thanksgiving matchup—the only FBS game on that day—the AAC saw an opportunity to keep a marquee game in that prime slot.
AAC Commissioner Tim Pernetti emphasized the significance of football on Thanksgiving, stating that it has been an integral part of the holiday for over a century.
With millions of fans tuning in, the conference aims to deliver one of its most compelling matchups, making Memphis vs. Navy an ideal choice.
Instead of a Memphis-Tulane rematch, which will take place earlier in the season on November 7, the AAC opted for the Tigers against Navy.
This decision adds an extra layer of excitement, as Navy defeated Memphis last season in Annapolis and returns standout quarterback Blake Horvath.
With both teams vying for strong finishes, this late-season showdown could have major AAC title implications.
The exact kickoff time and broadcast details will be revealed later, though last year’s Thanksgiving game was held in the evening, making another prime-time slot likely. For Memphis fans, this holiday tradition is quickly becoming a staple, giving them another reason to gather around the table—and the TV—on Thanksgiving Day.