Memphis triumphed over West Virginia with a final score of 42-37 in the thrilling 2024 Frisco Bowl, showcasing an action-packed game filled with scoring plays. With a stellar start, Memphis claimed a quick 17-point advantage, forcing West Virginia to chase them throughout the match. Although the Mountaineers made strides to catch up, the Tigers consistently countered their efforts, ultimately sealing the game with a crucial late interception.
The game witnessed a combined total of 1,008 offensive yards, a testament to both teams’ dynamic play. Memphis quarterback Seth Henigan shone in his final college game, completing 18 of 26 passes for 294 yards while adding 54 rushing yards, solidifying his legacy as he set multiple school records during his four-year tenure.
Despite missing the opportunity to be the Group of Five representative in the College Football Playoff, Memphis relished an impressive season finishing with 11 victories—their highest total since 2019—and marking their first back-to-back 10-win seasons in school history. In contrast, West Virginia concluded its season with a 6-7 record and is set to regroup under coach Rich Rodriguez’s second stint in Morgantown.
The Tigers clinched the victory with a late interception from Elijah Herring, although a dramatic moment followed when the ball was fumbled upon his fall. A video review confirmed that Herring had indeed given himself up, allowing Memphis to retain possession and run out the clock.
As halftime approached with a commanding lead of 28-17, Memphis’s offense continued to shine, including a spectacular 89-yard catch from Demeer Blankumsee that highlighted their potent attack. West Virginia’s resilience shone through, with several key plays, including C.J. Donaldson Jr.’s performance that brought the Mountaineers back into the game.
This memorable contest highlighted not only the talent on both sides but also the determination of Memphis to cement its place among the top teams in college football this season. For Memphis fans, this victory and record-breaking season offer a lot of optimism for the future as the program looks to build on this success in 2025.
In summary, the Frisco Bowl displayed a high-octane matchup that will be remembered not just for its thrilling plays but also for Memphis’s significant milestones, while West Virginia prepares to rebound under new coaching leadership.