The American Athletic Conference is gearing up for an exciting football season with no defending champion. Last year’s title winner, SMU, has left the league for the ACC, leaving the field wide open for competition.

Despite SMU’s departure, other top teams such as Memphis, Tulane, and UTSA are back and ready to contend. South Florida is also looking like a dark horse after a strong finish last season with a victory over Syracuse in the Boca Raton Bowl.

Memphis, in particular, is returning many key players from last season’s successful squad, including fourth-year head coach Ryan Silverfield. The Tigers are aiming to build on their 10-win season and secure another AAC title.

UTSA, a recent addition to the AAC, is also a team to watch. Despite losing their prolific QB Frank Harris, the Roadrunners are determined to maintain their winning streak under coach Jeff Traylor’s guidance.

Tulane, with a new head coach Jon Sumrall, is optimistic about the upcoming season. The Green Wave has a roster full of proven winners and is looking to find their next star QB to lead them to victory.

Army’s addition as a football-only member adds an exciting dynamic to the AAC. The conference is stacked with talented players who have been named to various preseason watch lists for national awards.

Key matchups against power conference teams will test the AAC contenders and determine their path to the College Football Playoff. The conference race is expected to be intense, with several teams vying for the top spot.

According to the AAC’s official preseason poll, Memphis is projected to finish at the top, followed by UTSA, Tulane, South Florida, and others. The stage is set for an action-packed season of AAC football.