Cincinnati Football Assistant Tim Conner Takes Memphis Special Teams Coordinator Role

A key assistant is departing the University of Cincinnati football program. Tim Conner is leaving his role as an assistant special teams coach to become the special teams coordinator at Memphis. The move was reported by national college football insider Matt Zenitz of 247Sports. It concludes Conner’s three-year tenure on head coach Scott Satterfield’s initial UC staff.

This creates an immediate vacancy for the Bearcats as they prepare for their bowl game. Conner was part of a staff that saw notable improvement in the team’s special teams unit this past season. His departure triggers a new search for Satterfield and special teams coordinator Luke Paschall.

Conner’s Departure Alters Bearcats’ Coaching Staff Ahead of Bowl Game

Tim Conner brought valuable experience to Cincinnati. Before his time with the Bearcats, he held positions at Louisville, Georgia Tech, and Temple. His work contributed to the special teams’ progress in the 2025 campaign.

The coaching shift happens during a busy preparation period. Cincinnati is getting ready for the Liberty Bowl on January 2nd. The game will also feature a new look at quarterback for the Bearcats.

According to Scott Satterfield, both Brady Lichtenberg and Samaj Jones will get playing time. This bowl game serves as a critical audition for the future starting job. The staff must now manage this transition while also filling Conner’s position on the sideline.

Memphis Gains Experienced Coach as Cincinnati Looks to Rebuild

For Memphis, the hire brings a coach familiar with the American Athletic Conference landscape. Conner’s recent experience improving a unit at a Power Four program is a clear asset. His recruiting ties in the region will also benefit the Tigers.

For Cincinnati, the search for a replacement begins in earnest. Continuity on staff is often a key to sustained success. The Bearcats will aim to find a coach who can maintain the special teams’ upward trajectory.

The Liberty Bowl against an opponent offers a final test for the current squad. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. ET on January 2nd. All eyes will be on the quarterback competition and the team’s adjusted coaching dynamic.

Tim Conner’s move to Memphis marks a significant shift for both football programs. Cincinnati must now find a capable successor to maintain their special teams momentum. This coaching change adds another layer to an already intriguing bowl game storyline for the Bearcats.

Info at your fingertips

Who is Tim Conner?

Tim Conner was an assistant special teams coach for the University of Cincinnati. He spent three seasons on Scott Satterfield’s staff before accepting the special teams coordinator job at Memphis.

What will Conner do at Memphis?

He will serve as the special teams coordinator for the Memphis Tigers football program. This is a promotion from his previous role as an assistant at Cincinnati.

How did Cincinnati’s special teams perform under Conner?

The unit showed marked improvement during the 2025 season. This progress was a positive development for the Bearcats’ overall team performance.

When is Cincinnati’s next game?

The Bearcats are set to play in the Liberty Bowl on January 2nd. The game will kick off at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

Who will replace Conner at Cincinnati?

Head coach Scott Satterfield and special teams coordinator Luke Paschall will lead the search for a new assistant. The hiring process is expected to begin promptly following the bowl game.