The highly anticipated matchup between Jackson State and Tennessee State is happening at a new venue this fall. The game was initially slated to be held at Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans. However, a scheduling conflict involving the Titans' last preseason game against the Chicago Bears led to the game being moved to FirstBank Stadium at Vanderbilt.
Tennessee State athletic director Mikki Allen spoke about the John A. Merritt Classic's move to its new venue and their partnership with both the Tennessee Titans and Vanderbilt University.
“We are excited to bring the John A. Merritt Classic to FirstBank Stadium and honor Coach John Merritt's legacy at a venue where he enjoyed tremendous success. We appreciate the partnership of Vanderbilt University and the Tennessee Titans in helping make this special event possible for our student-athletes, alumni and fans.”
Candice Lee, Vanderbilt Vice Chancellor for University Affairs and Athletics Director, also spoke glowingly of partnering with Tennessee State and the Titans for the event.
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“We are honored to partner with Tennessee State University to host the 2026 John A. Merritt Classic at FirstBank Stadium. Coach Merritt led many memorable victories at Dudley Field, making it especially meaningful to welcome this game and TSU back to campus. We are proud to support an event that celebrates Coach Merritt's legacy and the rich tradition of HBCU football, and we look forward to welcoming Tennessee State and Jackson State fans for what promises to be a special evening.”
The matchup is significant as Jackson State and Tennessee State renew their historic rivalry that was often played at the Southern Heritage Classic. However, Jackson State withdrew from the Southern Heritage Classic, and the last matchup between the two teams was in 2022. The August 29th game will renew the rivalry.
Per the statement from Tennessee State, it will also be the Tigers' first time playing at Vanderbilt University Stadium as the home team since their matchup against Florida A&M on September 21, 1996.
The highly anticipated matchup between Jackson State and Tennessee State is happening at a new venue this fall. The game was initially slated to be held at Nissan Stadium, home of the Tennessee Titans. However, a scheduling conflict involving the Titans' last preseason game against the Chicago Bears led to the game being moved to FirstBank Stadium at Vanderbilt.