Tennessee State has loaded up its 2026 schedule with four intriguing HBCU opponents that feature renewed rivalries, home attractions, and road tests.
So, how well — or not — will Tennessee State do during its Black College Football gauntlet this fall?
We predict the outcome of each game and provide a score.
Tennessee State vs. Jackson State (John A. Merritt Classic)
This matchup returns after a hiatus for a home-and-home series that starts in Nashville in 2026. Despite the turnover on Jackson State’s roster, the SWAC East champs will present a strong group once again after securing arguably the top transfer portal class in HBCU football. It’s that disparity, combined with Tennessee State still trying to find its way in Year 2 of the Reggie Barlow era, that will be the difference. Jackson State 27, Tennessee State 17
Tennessee State at Alabama A&M (Legacy Series)
This game was decided on the slimmest of margins a season ago in favor of Alabama A&M. Expect another close one. But this time, Tennessee State comes out on top. Tennessee State 28, Alabama A&M 24
Tennessee State at Florida A&M
Renewing another storied rivalry, Florida A&M has a renewed hope with native son Quinn Gray leading the way. The Rattlers don’t lose often at Bragg Memorial Stadium, and Tennessee State will fall in this road matchup. Florida A&M 31, Tennessee State 20
Tennessee State vs. Morgan State
Undefeated all-time against Morgan State with past shutouts (14-0 in 1972, 21-0 in 1985), TSU is on a 40-year winning streak. But this isn’t the 80s, and the Bears have a good defense that will test Matt Leone’s offense. While Morgan State is a solid team, they haven’t proven to be a consistent separator, which favors the Tigers in this one. Tennessee State 23, Morgan State 19
