Tennessee State University (TSU) football is focused on breaking its five-game losing streak when the team faces Howard University on October 18 at Nissan Stadium for their homecoming game. This comes after a disappointing performance against Southeast Missouri, where TSU fell 28-12.
Currently, TSU holds a record of 1-5 overall and 0-3 in the Big South/Ohio Valley Conference. The matchup against Howard, who stands at 3-3 and has yet to play a conference game in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, poses a critical opportunity for TSU to regain momentum. In their previous meeting last year, TSU defeated Howard 27-14 during the Bison’s homecoming.
Throughout the season, TSU’s offense has faced significant challenges, managing only eight touchdowns and ranking 121st in total offense among 126 teams in the FCS, with an average of 254.3 yards per game. Additionally, its scoring offense ranks tied for 120th at just 12.5 points per game. The Tigers’ quarterback, Byron McNair, who is recovering from a non-throwing shoulder injury, has completed 58 of 97 passes for 663 yards, two touchdowns, and five interceptions this season.
On the other hand, Howard’s offensive struggles are evident as well, with the Bison ranking 108th in total offense at 287.8 yards per game and tied for 99th in scoring with an average of 19.2 points per game. Their performance has seen them score more than one touchdown in a single game only once this season.
Compounding TSU’s difficulties, linebacker Brent Rowe will not be participating due to injury, while the team’s leading tackler, defensive back Kaiki Baker, will also miss the game with an injury sustained against Southeast Missouri. This reshuffling in the roster may challenge TSU’s defensive strategies as they prepare for Howard’s offense, led by quarterback Tyriq Starks, who has thrown for 749 yards, four touchdowns, and three interceptions this season.
Kickoff for the TSU vs. Howard matchup is set for 4:30 p.m. CT, and fans can stream the game on ESPN+. With a critical chance to shift their season trajectory, TSU will aim to leverage their home advantage and put an end to their losing streak.