Memphis football's Ryan Silverfield addresses administration support after back-to-back 6-6 regular seasons

Memphis football returned to practice Friday after almost three weeks off. Yet the bigger news seemed to be how the foundation around the Tigers' program remains firm.

Four of the Tigers' top players have announced they'll be back next season, including quarterback Seth Henigan. Memphis also added seven commitments for its 2023 class along with two players who transferred.

It had coach Ryan Silverfield in a good mood as the team ramps up preparations to face Utah State in the First Responder Bowl on Dec. 27 (2:15 p.m., ESPN). Yes, there are challenges with re-recruiting the current roster as much as the incoming class, but Silverfield felt confident that enough players understood all is not lost after a second 6-6 season entering the bowl season.

"We talk about culture all we want but it's got to be reflected in wins and losses. When you talk about the culture and the relationships, that's all this means," Silverfield said. "So the relationship with these current student-athletes, they understand that our future's pretty darn bright here and we've got high expectations for ourselves."

Here's what else Silverfield said in his first availability since the bowl game announcement on Dec. 4

JAYLON ALLEN RETURNS:Memphis football DL Jaylon Allen announces return for 2023 season

PRIESKORN EXPLAINS:Memphis football TE Caden Prieskorn explains why he's returning for 2023 season

Administration support

Silverfield appreciated athletic director Laird Veatch putting his public support behind him returning for a fourth season. Both he and Veatch agreed the Tigers can do better than going 6-6, but Silverfield was glad that Veatch and his staff believe in him and support some of the positives such as strong recruiting and graduation rates.

"They know what it looks like and what I appreciate is they understand we're trying to do it the right way," Silverfield said. "Has it been perfect? No. I've been far from perfect as a head coach. I've got so many things I need to improve on (and) that our program needs to get better at. Ultimately it comes down to winning and I get that.

"I think it's important for the head football coach to be able to align on the same page (with the athletic director) and I think it'll make a huge difference for us going forward. Like I've said, I plan to be here for a long time but they also see the vision and the way it's going about. Ultimately, got to win football games. I'm not oblivious to that.

Transfer portal watch

Silverfield's philosophy this year with the transfer portal was simple. Try to get the best players available.

Memphis' key needs after this season include finding playmakers at the skill positions along with linebacker, safety, and replacing both offensive tackles. One of those needs could come from East Tennessee State linebacker Chandler Martin, who committed to the Tigers this week.

Silverfield said adding linemen is always a priority but watching the portal is a constant job to see who pops in. The Tigers' needs could easily change if a newly added player catches their eye.

"You think you feel comfortable at certain spots, but you're always looking at players. If you feel like hey, this guy may be addition to our roster to make us better, you're going to have to look at that," Silverfield said.

Staff changes on hold

Silverfield has met with players to assess what their role could be next season and also with his assistants. While some players have transferred, Silverfield said he'll re-evaluate his staff after the bowl game.

Between the game and the early signing period, it's been difficult finding time to properly see where things stand. So Silverfield said he'll make any decisions once the team returns from Dallas.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Memphis football: Ryan Silverfield on AD's support, Tigers roster