Memphis Independent School District announced that it will forgo the standard 11‑man tackle football season this year, opting instead for a six‑man variant often called “outlaw” football.
Why Six‑Man Football?
The decision comes after a severe shortage of players left the program unable to field a full roster, prompting administrators to seek an alternative that would preserve the Friday night tradition.
Six‑man football, popular in parts of Texas and other states with small enrollments, condenses the game onto a smaller field, features fewer blockers and faster play, and is known for its high‑scoring, up‑tempo style.
Playing Outside the UIL System
Because the new format places Memphis outside the University Interscholastic League structure, the team will be classified as an “outlaw” program and will not be eligible for state championships.
Instead, the district is assembling a custom schedule that pits the team against other independent six‑man programs, private schools and junior‑varsity squads, with the slate still being finalized.
Community Support and Next Steps
District officials have urged the community to turn out and support the experiment, emphasizing that the change is meant to keep the sport alive for students in a region where participation numbers have been dwindling.
An official schedule is expected to be released in the coming weeks, after which the team will begin its unconventional season.