The 1961 Memphis State Tigers football team was an American football team that represented Memphis State College (now known as the University of Memphis) as an independent during the 1961 college football season. In its fourth season under head coach Billy J. Murphy, the Tigers compiled an 8–2 record and outscored opponents by a total of 332 to 75.[1][2]
The team's statistical leaders included James Earl Wright with 604 passing yards, fullback Dave Casinelli with 646 rushing yards and 54 points scored, and Don Coffey with 312 receiving yards.[3] Coffey and Jack Carter were the team captains.