What Ryan Silverfield learned from Memphis football's 1st scrimmage, and what concerned him

There was one thing Ryan Silverfield didn't like about Memphis football 's first scrimmage of preseason practice.

"Too many penalties," the Tigers coach said Tuesday. "And that's uncommon for a Memphis football team. We were one of the least penalized teams in college football the last five years, and I take a lot of pride in that. I think it's important."

The Tigers held a closed scrimmage over the weekend, and Silverfield said he was happy with the energy levels and communication. But with actual referees for the first time during preseason practice, he wasn't happy about the lack of discipline.

Silverfield said he essentially stopped the scrimmage at one point because of all the penalties. But he said he was encouraged by the response he got from players afterwards.

"We can't have our own expectations, our own standards here of excellence and go out there and perform that way and do stupid penalties," he said.

Asked who had impressed him, Silverfield specifically mentioned Indiana transfer defensive lineman Patrick Lucas Jr., UMass transfer running back Greg Desrosiers Jr. and true freshman receiver Brady Kluse.

Memphis plans to hold another scrimmage on Saturday, ideally at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. Silverfield said he wasn't sure if it would be possible because of the ongoing construction at the stadium, though.

"We may be wearing hard hats and helmets," he said.

Tigers still testing helmet technology

One of the key changes in college football this season will be the introduction of helmet technology that allows coaches to talk to players up until the 15-second mark on the play clock. One player on each team will be able to wear the helmet with the technology.

That means the quarterback on offense, in almost every situation. Defensively, it could mean a linebacker or a safety, and Silverfield said the Tigers have tried both.

"We're experimenting with both, kind of seeing what's the best fit," he said. "I still think you've got to signal, I still think you're going to huddle some."

Teams will also be able to use tablets on the sideline to watch in-game video, but Silverfield said Memphis has not yet been able to use them in practices.

The Tigers kick off their season on Aug. 31 when they host North Alabama at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium.

Reach sports writer Jonah Dylan at jonah.dylan@commercialappeal.com or on X @thejonahdylan.

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: What Ryan Silverfield learned from Memphis football's 1st scrimmage, and what concerned him