Wayne Dowdle becomes president of AutoZone Liberty Bowl Festival Association

Wayne Dowdle has been elected president of the 2026 AutoZone Liberty Bowl Festival Association, as announced on June 23. Dowdle, a native of Memphis and former football player at the University of Memphis, takes over leadership ahead of the 68th AutoZone Liberty Bowl, scheduled for January 2 at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. He has a history of involvement with the Bowl, receiving the 'Volunteer of the Year' Award in 2023. Dowdle aims to continue the Bowl's mission of promoting Memphis and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital through various events. Alongside him, Shone Bynum, Scott Cummins, Malvin Gipson, and Kevin Nienhuis have also been elected as officers for 2026.

• 11:00 PMYahoo Sports — Wayne Dowdle elected AutoZone Liberty Bowl Festival Association president