Big South-OVC Football Association Preseason Poll for 2024 Season
Tennessee State Football Looks to Build on Success in 2024
After an impressive 2023 season that saw Tennessee State football win six games and contend for a Big South-OVC championship, the Tigers are gearing up for an even stronger performance in 2024. Under the leadership of head coach Eddie George, the team made significant strides last year and will look to continue their upward trajectory in the competitive Big South-OVC conference.
As the new season approaches, UT Martin has been named the favorite in the Big South-OVC Football Association preseason poll. The Skyhawks, who were co-champions last year, received five first-place votes and 61 points to claim the top spot. Eastern Illinois and Southeast Missouri followed closely behind, with Eastern Illinois earning two first-place votes and 53 points, and Southeast Missouri receiving two first-place votes and 51 points.
Tennessee State was picked fourth in the preseason poll, signaling high expectations for the Tigers in the upcoming season. Last year’s co-champion, Gardner-Webb, was close behind in fifth place. The rest of the rankings included Charleston Southern, Tennessee Tech, Lindenwood, and newcomer Western Illinois.
The 2024 season is set to kick off on August 24 with Southeast Missouri facing off against North Alabama in the FCS Kickoff Classic. The first Association game of the season will take place on September 7 when UT Martin travels to Southeast Missouri. Teams will play an eight-game round-robin schedule, with the Association champion earning an automatic bid to the FCS Playoffs.
With high hopes and a competitive conference ahead, Tennessee State football is ready to make their mark in the Big South-OVC in 2024.