Photo / Nashville Predators Juuse Saros was the story at Bridgestone Arena, turning aside 39 Colorado shots and three more in the shootout as the Nashville Predators edged the NHL-leading Colorado Avalanche 4-3. The win — Nashville’s fifth in seven games — underscored the club’s rising form and resilience. Colorado struck just 1:12 into the contest, but the Predators answered with urgency and balanced scoring. Ryan O’Reilly opened the shootout scoring for Nashville, and Jonathan Marchessault, Reid Schaefer and Brady Skjei all made decisive contributions; Skjei’s late third-period goal proved the game-tying go-ahead marker before the teams headed to a tiebreaker. “It wasn’t the hardest shot, but it was nice to finally get one through,” Skjei said after the game. Marchessault praised the opponent while celebrating the result: “They’re a pretty unbelievable team... but we found a way to win tonight.” The night took a dramatic turn in the shootout when Filip Forsberg collided with Avalanche goalie Scott Wedgewood, forcing Colorado to replace Wedgewood — who was making his first start in a week — and send him to concussion protocol. The incident prompted conversation about shootout tactics; while crashing the net on a shootout attempt isn’t explicitly banned, it raised questions about player conduct in high-stakes moments. Head coach Jared Bednar noted the league’s role in player safety: “If they see something they think is fishy, they call down for the safety of the players.” Backup MacKenzie Blackwood, who came in for Wedgewood, didn’t face a shot in the shootout. Between Saros’s standout night, key offensive plays from Nashville’s depth and a loud home crowd, the Predators left Bridgestone with a signature victory that adds momentum as the season progresses.

NASHVILLE — Tennessee State University (TSU) track and field opened the 2025 indoor season at the Vanderbilt Indoor Opener, competing against several SEC and regional programs. The Tigers posted multiple personal bests and several top‑8 finishes, signaling a strong start to the year. Key track performances Devin Jones (sophomore) got the day started in the men’s 600m. Known for his closing speed, Jones controlled the race early and accelerated in the final lap to set a personal record, emerging as one of TSU’s top performers. Senior Robert Hooper set a personal best in the men’s mile. With measured pacing and a strong finish, Hooper delivered one of the best races of his TSU career. On the women’s side, Sydney McGee led the middle‑distance group in the 600m, finishing inside the top 20. Teammates Haley Blades, Quinn Hudson and Maleia Ali also turned in solid early‑season efforts. Senior hurdler Kara Stewart posted a time of 9.16 in the 60m hurdles. Field and throws Olivia Allison, Haley Blades and Madison Houston‑Boykin produced competitive marks in the field events. Allison highlighted the group with an eighth‑place finish in the triple jump, registering a season best of 11.62 m. Houston‑Boykin cleared 1.52 m in the high jump for a top‑13 finish. In the throws, senior Ayana Pugh finished sixth in the shot put, while Carolyn McRee earned a career best of 15.41 m in the weight throw, finishing eighth overall. Relays and sprints The TSU 4x400 A‑team — Quest Agee, Joshua McClendon, Nigel Simon Jr. and Devin Jones — ran 3:18.05 to place sixth. The B‑team — Robert Hooper, Brian Townsend, Aaron Davis and Kylen Thorps — won their heat in outdueling two opponents down the stretch. Junior Caleb Joshway ran 6.83 in the sprint prelims, narrowly missing a spot in the finals. Outlook With multiple personal bests and strong depth across track and field, TSU concluded the Vanderbilt Indoor Opener encouraged and ready to build. The Tigers return to competition Saturday, January 3, when they host the Edward S. Temple Invitational at the Gentry Center in Nashville — an opportunity to sharpen ahead of Ohio Valley Conference competition later this winter, according to TSU athletics.

Belmont defeated Middle Tennessee State 83–62 at the Murphy Center on a December afternoon in a game that highlighted the Bruins’ defensive strength and efficient offense. Belmont opened the game strong when Drew Scharnowski scored on a dunk just 12 seconds in. The Bruins built an early lead, reaching 11–4 on contributions from Tyler Lundblade, Brigham Rogers and Bez Jenkins. Middle Tennessee responded behind Jahvin Carter’s outside shooting and Torey Alston’s work inside, briefly taking a three-point advantage midway through the first half. Belmont closed the half on a run, limiting Middle Tennessee to a single field goal in the final minutes. Nic McClain scored six straight points down the stretch, sending Belmont into halftime ahead 35–31. At halftime, Belmont coach Casey Alexander focused on maintaining defensive discipline and finding high-percentage shots. Middle Tennessee coach Nick McDevitt urged his team to tighten up defensively and work together offensively in the second half. The Bruins extended their lead after the break. Sam Orme’s early second-half basket helped Belmont build momentum, while Jack Smiley and Isaiah West added key scores as the Bruins pushed their advantage. A 10–0 run later in the half put Belmont in control at 72–51, highlighted by a Lundblade three-pointer. Belmont’s defense continued to limit Middle Tennessee’s opportunities in the closing minutes. Jenkins’ late steal and layup helped seal the result, and the final score stood at 83–62. The win marked Belmont’s fifth consecutive road victory this season. McClain led Belmont with 20 points; Lundblade added 15, and Scharnowski provided an early spark. For Middle Tennessee, Alston was a focal point inside and emphasized the team’s intention to learn from the loss and improve going forward. The game was a clear defensive and offensive performance by Belmont and provided both teams with takeaways as they move deeper into the season.

By David Oglesby NASHVILLE, TN - The 2025 season was a landmark year for Nashville SC, delivering the franchise’s first major professional sports championship in Tennessee with a Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup and setting a platform for sustained success. While the campaign ended with a playoff disappointment, the highs and roster moves that followed make the club’s near‑term outlook encouraging. Season snapshot Regular season: 16–6–12 (54 points), sixth in the Eastern Conference — Nashville’s fifth playoff appearance in six seasons. Scoring: Club record 58 regular‑season goals and 75 goals across all competitions. Defense: 45 goals conceded (seventh‑fewest in MLS). Offense: Surridge, Mukhtar and a relentless attack Sam Surridge led the charge, breaking the club mark with 24 MLS goals and establishing himself as the team’s focal point in attack. Hany Mukhtar continued to provide elite production, joining the club of players who have recorded at least 10 goals and 10 assists in four separate MLS seasons. Those two, supported by midfield creativity and wing play, helped Nashville produce its most potent attacking season to date. Defense: Balanced and steady Nashville’s ability to marry offensive firepower with defensive structure was a defining feature. Conceding 45 goals across the regular season showed improvement from previous campaigns and helped the team stay competitive in tight matches — a balance that will be important to preserve moving forward. Key moments and setbacks Silverware: Winning the U.S. Open Cup was a watershed moment for the club and its supporters. MLS Cup Playoffs: A 2–1 aggregate loss to Inter Miami ended Nashville’s postseason run earlier than expected and highlighted areas — particularly in depth and late‑game management — that need addressing. High‑profile friendly: A 2–2 draw with Aston Villa provided a useful test and confidence boost against elite opposition. Roster moves and recruitment The front office signaled a clear approach in the offseason: evolve the squad while maintaining the club’s identity. Notable changes included the departures of longtime captain Walker Zimmerman and the decision not to pick up goalkeeper Joe Willis’s option. Those moves free resources and roster slots as Nashville pursues reinforcements. Incoming: Maxwell Woledzi Nashville announced the signing of Ghanaian defender Maxwell Woledzi from Fredrikstad FK. Reports praise his ball‑carrying ability and physical profile — attributes that fit Nashville’s desire for defenders who can initiate play from the back and provide tactical flexibility. Callaghan’s scouting in Norway has precedent at the club, and earlier signings from that market have adapted well, suggesting Woledzi has a reasonable chance to contribute quickly. Youth and internal growth The club’s academy and young signings also featured in 2025’s story. Matthew Corcoran’s breakthrough as the youngest goal contributor for the first team is one example of Nashville’s sustained emphasis on developing talent internally — an approach that can pay dividends as the roster is refreshed. What to watch for in 2026 Depth behind the front three: Keeping Surridge and Mukhtar productive while shoring up rotation options will be essential, especially with multiple competitions on the horizon. Defensive continuity: Integrating new defenders like Woledzi and replacing leadership lost with Zimmerman will test the coaching staff’s ability to maintain structure. Playoff mentality: Turning regular‑season success and cup triumph into deeper postseason runs remains the next big step. Balanced take There’s cause for optimism: a historic trophy, record offensive numbers, promising young players and active recruitment. Equally, the playoff exit and notable roster turnover point to work that remains. The club’s trajectory is upward, but converting momentum into consistent playoff success and regional (Concacaf) ambitions will require careful roster construction and tactical refinement. Bottom line The 2025 season redefined expectations for Nashville SC. With a U.S. Open Cup title in the cabinet, attacking records set and targeted additions underway, the Boys in Gold appear well positioned to push for more — provided the club addresses depth, defensive leadership, and postseason execution heading into 2026.

By David Oglesby Photo / #8 Ava Black / Vanderbilt Athletics NASHVILLE, Tenn. – No. 15/14 Vanderbilt women's basketball opens a five‑game homestand Wednesday when the Commodores host Virginia in the 2025 ACC/SEC Challenge. Tipoff is 4 p.m. CT at Memorial Gymnasium and the game will air on SEC Network. Vanderbilt enters the matchup 8‑0 to start the 2025‑26 season. The Commodores went undefeated at the U.S. Virgin Islands Paradise Jam with wins over Oregon State (88‑66) and BYU (84‑71). Sophomore guard Mikayla Blakes was tournament MVP after scoring 35 points against Oregon State and 27 against BYU. All five December games will be played at Memorial Gymnasium and tickets are available through the team's official site. Under head coach Shea Ralph, Vanderbilt is 57‑19 against nonconference opponents and has won 23 straight home games versus non‑SEC teams at Memorial Gym. The Commodores are 50‑21 at home since Ralph took over. Wednesday’s meeting is the seventh between Vanderbilt and Virginia; the Cavaliers lead the all‑time series 4‑2. Virginia has won the last two matchups, including a 73‑66 victory in the 2012 San Juan Shootout. Vanderbilt’s only home meeting in the series was a 72‑65 win in December 1995. Vanderbilt’s offense is averaging 86.9 points per game (12th nationally) and outscoring opponents by 31.3 points per game, with a total scoring differential of +250. The Commodores make 9.8 three‑pointers per game at a 37.1% clip (14th nationally in threes made, 28th in three‑point percentage). Virginia averages 79.5 points per game while allowing 52.9, outscoring opponents by 26.6 points per game. The Cavaliers average 7.0 three‑pointers per game. The five‑game homestand is a chance for Vanderbilt to keep building momentum. Tipoff is Wednesday at 4 p.m. CT at Memorial Gym; fans can watch on SEC Network.

By David Oglesby Photo / Andrew Ferguson / Tennessee Athletics KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The University of Tennessee men’s basketball team rose to a season‑high No. 13 in both the Associated Press Top 25 and the USA TODAY Coaches Poll, the university reported. The Volunteers (7–1) jumped four spots in the AP poll and three spots in the Coaches Poll, marking their 85th consecutive week in the AP Top 25. The streak began at the start of the 2021–22 season and is the country’s second‑longest active run, behind Houston (111). Head coach Rick Barnes has led Tennessee to 139 AP Top‑25 appearances during his 11 seasons with the program. Tennessee’s strong start also is reflected in the NCAA NET rankings, where they sit at No. 12, per rockytopinsider.com . Last week the Volunteers played in the Players’ Era Men’s Championship in Las Vegas and went 2–1. They opened with an 85–60 win over Rutgers, paced by senior guard Ja’Kobi Gillespie’s 32 points. Tennessee then beat No. 3/2 Houston, 76–73, with Gillespie scoring 22. The week ended with an 81–76 loss to Kansas, despite freshman forward Nate Ament’s 20 points. Tennessee’s climb in the polls came with an increase in points: 771 in the AP Poll and 337 in the Coaches Poll. The SEC placed seven teams in the Top 25 in both polls, including No. 12 Alabama; No. 15/14 Florida; No. 17/16 Vanderbilt; No. 18 Kentucky; No. 20/24 Auburn; and No. 25/23 Arkansas.

The upcoming game between the Tennessee Titans and the Cleveland Browns promises more than just a typical NFL matchup. It features a rare and intriguing battle between two rookie quarterbacks, each carrying high expectations despite their teams’ recent struggles. Both signal-callers face the challenge of proving their worth while leading lackluster squads. This game will reveal what these young quarterbacks need to do to secure a win and build momentum for their careers. Rookie quarterbacks preparing for the Titans vs Browns game Understanding the Stakes for Both Teams The Titans and Browns have not been dominant forces in the league recently. Both teams are rebuilding and looking to their rookie quarterbacks as the future. The pressure on these young players is immense. They must demonstrate leadership, poise, and the ability to make smart decisions under pressure. For the Titans, their rookie quarterback needs to show he can manage the game effectively, avoid costly mistakes, and capitalize on scoring opportunities. The Browns’ rookie faces a similar task but must also contend with a defense that has struggled to contain opposing offenses. Both quarterbacks must elevate their play to give their teams a chance. What the Titans’ Cameron Ward Must Do The Titans’ rookie quarterback has a few clear priorities to help his team win: Protect the football : Turnovers kill momentum. Limiting interceptions and fumbles is critical. Use quick decision-making : The offensive line has shown vulnerability. Quick throws and smart reads will reduce pressure. Establish the run game : Supporting the running backs with timely passes keeps defenses honest. Stay calm under pressure : The Titans’ defense can create turnovers, but the offense must stay composed to capitalize. For example, in a recent game, the Titans’ rookie showed promise by completing short, accurate passes and avoiding risky throws. Building on this approach will help him control the game clock and keep the Browns’ offense off the field. What the Browns’ Shedeur Sanders Must Do The Browns’ rookie quarterback faces a tough challenge but has clear areas to focus on: Improve accuracy on intermediate throws : This will open up the field and create scoring chances. Read the defense effectively : Recognizing blitzes and coverage schemes will prevent sacks and turnovers. Build chemistry with receivers : Timing routes and trust are essential for success. Lead the team confidently : The Browns need a steady hand to rally the offense during critical moments. In previous outings, Sanders showed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency. By focusing on these key areas, he can help the Browns compete and keep the game close. Key Matchups to Watch This game will hinge on several important matchups: Offensive line vs. pass rush : Both rookie quarterbacks rely heavily on protection. The team that wins this battle will have a significant advantage. Wide receivers vs. defensive backs : Successful passing depends on receivers creating separation and making catches. Running backs vs. linebackers : Establishing the run game will open up play-action opportunities for the quarterbacks. Each of these battles will test the rookies’ ability to adapt and make smart decisions. Coaches will need to tailor game plans that play to their quarterbacks’ strengths while minimizing exposure to their weaknesses. Mental Toughness and Leadership Beyond physical skills, mental toughness and leadership will define the outcome. Both quarterbacks must handle the pressure of expectations and the spotlight of a nationally watched game. They need to: Stay focused despite mistakes or setbacks Communicate clearly with teammates Maintain confidence in their game plan Adjust quickly to defensive schemes These qualities often separate good quarterbacks from great ones. The rookie who demonstrates resilience and poise will give his team the best chance to win. What Fans Can Expect This matchup offers a glimpse into the future of both franchises. It’s a chance to see how these young players handle adversity and pressure early in their careers. Final Thoughts on What It Takes to Win Winning this game requires more than just talent. Both rookie quarterbacks must combine smart decision-making, strong leadership, and effective execution. Protecting the football, reading defenses, and building trust with teammates will be crucial.

Photo David Oglesby / Cumberland on the Attack By David Oglesby LEBANON, Tenn. — Cumberland University advanced in the NAIA National Tournament with a 3–0 victory over Carroll (Mont.) at Cumberland's Lindsey Donnell Stadium. The Phoenix first struck late in the opening half and put the game away in the second period with two more goals, finishing with 26 shots (13 on target) to Carroll’s 12 (2 on target). Scoring summary: 37:16 — Wesley Mendoza (Cumberland) converted a rebound from a Philipp Schmidtke assist to make it 1−0. 57:42 — Luis Cerejo finished from close range following build-up play involving Jostin Angel and Mendoza to extend the lead to 2−0. 80:31 — Dominik Gedek added an unassisted strike off a cross-field play to seal the 3−0 result. Key performers: Miquel Gelabert led Cumberland with eight shots (five on goal); Pau Ortega had six shots (two on target). Philipp Schmidtke set up the opening goal. Goalkeeper Eric Zalaya recorded two saves and the shutout. Carroll keeper Juan Muniz Navarrete made 10 saves while facing 26 attempts. Cumberland controlled much of the match, converting possession into chances and earning eight corner kicks to Carroll’s three. Cumberland committed 15 fouls to Carroll’s 13. Yellow cards were shown to Cumberland’s Luis Cerejo, Miquel Gelabert and Jostin Angel in the first half; Carroll’s Adam Webster and Cumberland’s Alejandro Vega were booked in the second. Cumberland will advance to the national site in Orange Beach, Ala., to face Georgia Gwinnett in the next round. The win represents a program milestone for Cumberland in NAIA tournament play. Disruption and investigation: The match was marred by a crowd disturbance. Officials initially halted play with around seven minutes left in the second half after alleged racial slurs were reportedly heard from the stands directed at a Carroll player. Play was delayed while referees, team staff and stadium officials conferred. After more than twenty minutes of discussion both teams left the field without an immediate ruling or ending to the match. NAIA and Cumberland websites show a final and win by Cumberland of 3-0 at the time of this report. NAIA officials and Cumberland's Athletic Department have not released a formal statement on the incident. NAIA’s policies prohibit racial slurs and discriminatory conduct; institutions and event hosts must investigate allegations, take prompt disciplinary action when warranted, and may remove offending spectators. The NAIA emphasizes protecting student‑athletes and upholding sportsmanship standards.

Photo / #10 Melania Fullerton and Crew Celebrate Hard Fought Win / Vanderbilt Athletics By David Oglesby NASHVILLE — Of the five Tennessee-area teams that entered the NCAA Women's Soccer Tournament — Lipscomb, Tennessee Tech, Tennessee, Memphis and Vanderbilt — only one remains. No. 1 seed Vanderbilt survived a dramatic 2‑OT thriller in Nashville Friday night, downing eighth-seeded Clemson 3–2 on Adysen Armenta’s golden goal in the 107th minute to reach the Sweet Sixteen for the second straight year. Vanderbilt fell behind early after Clemson converted a penalty just 47 seconds in, but the Commodores rallied after halftime. Sydney Watts tied it in the 55th minute and Mary Beth McLaughlin put Vandy ahead moments later. Clemson forced a second penalty and sent the match to overtime before Armenta capitalized on a deflection to deliver the decisive strike. The result leaves the state’s postseason picture with mixed outcomes. Lipscomb’s historic run ended in a 1–0 loss to defending champion Florida State in the Second Round. Memphis fell 4–0 to No. 2 seed TCU, while Tennessee was eliminated by North Carolina, 3–1. Tennessee Tech bowed out to Vanderbilt, 2–0, in the opening round after a season in which the Golden Eagles posted a strong defensive showing. Now the focus turns to the next test for the Commodores: an SEC matchup with LSU in the Round of 16. Vanderbilt will look to carry the momentum from Friday’s late heroics as it chases a deeper run in the tournament.

Photo / Cumberland's Triston Conger attempts a shot / Cumberland Athletics By David Oglesby NASHVILLE, TN - Nashville basketball is up and going and as the season starts some players are emerging as the ones to watch. Based on early numbers around Music City, here are five players who are standing up and representing their programs in a strong way. Duke Miles / Vanderbilt - At the top is Duke Miles, the steady-handed guard leading a Vanderbilt team already receiving national attention. Miles is averaging about 16 points and nearly six assists per game while shooting efficiently and creating for others — the kind of floor leadership that turns good rosters into tournament contenders. Vanderbilt’s 4-0 start and national recognition (No. 24 coaches’ poll, AP votes) make the Commodores an outlier in the Nashville landscape: their resources, depth and nonconference résumé place them in a different tier than most local programs. Miles’ play validates that gap; he’s not just piling up stats, he’s the fulcrum for a team expected to contend in both the league and on a national stage. Triston Conger / Cumberland - Cumberland’s senior forward Triston Conger is a force in the smaller-college scene. Leading his team with roughly 21 points per game while posting efficient shooting splits, Conger combines interior scoring and rebounding that tilt games in Cumberland’s favor. The Bulldogs lean on him offensively, and his presence explains why Cumberland has already looked like one of the more dangerous mid-major outfits locally. When Conger gets position and the ball, defenses must rotate — and Cumberland’s supporting cast often benefits with open looks and second-chance points. Aaron Nkrumah / Tennessee State - Tennessee State’s early results have been driven by a quartet of scorers, and out of that group Aaron Nkrumah stands out. Averaging near 18.5 points per game in a balanced TSU attack, he’s blended inside-out scoring with consistent efficiency. TSU’s team numbers — a top scoring average around 94 points per game and a strong rebounding margin — reflect a program identity built on pace and board control. Nkrumah is the primary beneficiary and architect of that identity: when he’s scoring, Tennessee State’s offense hums; when he draws attention, the Bruins and guards thrive in the spaces created. Tyler Lundblade / Belmont - Belmont’s veteran-talented core has always been defined by tough, methodical play and efficient scoring, and Tyler Lundblade is the latest example. He’s averaging in the mid-teens and showing a reliable outside stroke that opens up Belmont’s halfcourt sets. Belmont’s 4-0 start — and the recent gritty rivalry win over Lipscomb that showcased defense, free throws and timely veteran play — underscores the program’s steadiness. Lundblade’s scoring and willingness to step into late-game moments encapsulate what has made Belmont a consistent threat in the region: veteran poise and role players who execute. Simeon Williams / Fisk (and other local standouts) - Across the river and in neighboring programs, players like Simeon Williams at Fisk have been doing the heavy lifting. Williams’ scoring totals and efficiency have been central to Fisk’s offense; he’s a go-to option who can create off the bounce and knock down shots. While Fisk’s overall record and roster context differ from Division I peers, Williams’ individual impact is unmistakable. Likewise, players such as Mekhi Cameron at Tennessee Tech and Zyree Collins at Austin Peay have produced early and consistently, showing that Nashville’s talent pool runs deep across classifications. What’s striking early in the season is how different program profiles shape player value. Vanderbilt, with national attention and deeper roster talent, elevates its players’ narratives — a strong performance there carries broader implications for conference standings and NCAA chatter. Belmont remains a model of program continuity: experienced guards and forwards executing a clear system. Tennessee State’s uptempo identity plays into star scorers who can finish and rebound; Cumberland and Trevecca (and even standout players at smaller schools) lean on individual studs who can swing games singlehandedly. What to watch next Through conference play and nonconference measuring sticks, keep an eye on how these five players influence outcomes. Does Miles sustain Vanderbilt’s efficient creation against stiffer opponents? Can Conger keep producing while Cumberland faces varied defensive looks? Will Nkrumah’s scoring translate into wins when TSU meets tougher rebounding units? Also watch supporting casts: Vanderbilt’s depth might blunt an off-night, while smaller programs live and die by their stars. Early-season stats only tell part of the story, but in Nashville they point to a clear truth: this is a town where basketball is crowded with interesting narratives — from Vanderbilt’s national flirtation to the scrappy, high-output performances at mid‑major and small-college programs. These five players have given fans reason to tune in; how their seasons finish will define the local pecking order come March.

Photo / Fisk University Athletics NASHVILLE, TN - Fisk University learned Monday who their opponent will be as they continue a highly successful season. The Lady Bulldogs will travel to Corban University in Oregon for an NAIA opening-round match on Saturday, November 22 at 2:00 p.m. CT in the Women’s Volleyball Championship. The selection party on Fisk’s Nashville campus was equal parts celebration and focus. Fisk (29-7, 10-0) punched its ticket after an unbeaten conference slate and a season highlighted by stout defense and balanced offense. Fresh off a 3-2 win over Paul Quinn and a narrow 3-2 loss to Dillard in recent action, the Lady Bulldogs know the margin for error in postseason play is slim. Awaiting them in Oregon is Corban (24-5, 17-3), a well-rounded opponent that posts stronger attack and assist numbers. The Warriors also distribute the ball efficiently while limiting reception mistakes which will make them a strong test for the Bulldogs. Defensively Corban has a physical, disciplined front with strong net play. Fisk coaches emphasized serve-receive, serving pressure and transition offense as keys to a good match. The opening round on Nov. 22 begins a national chase that culminates with pool play at the Tyson Events Center in Sioux City in early December. All opening-round matches are streamed free on the NAIA Channel of the Urban Edge Network, and final-site pool assignments will be announced Sunday, Nov. 23.

Photo / Tennessee Tech Athletics, Jim Dillion / #11 Dani Pounds COOKEVILLE — Monday night was a split bill of gritty effort and dominant statement play across Tennessee college hoops. First up, Tennessee Tech’s late surge came up inches short as the Golden Eagles dropped a 61-59 decision to West Georgia at the Eblen Center. Later in Knoxville, No. 20 Tennessee coasted to a 91-66 victory over Rice at Food City Center, a result that keeps Vols supporters across Middle Tennessee smiling. Tennessee Tech (2-3) staged an 11-0 run late to make it a one-point game, but West Georgia (3-2) held on. Tech’s comeback was fueled by a stingy final defensive stretch that held West Georgia without a field goal over the last 3:12. Dani Pounds led Tech with 17 points, including 11 in the second half, and went a perfect 5-of-5 from the line. JaJuan Nicholls added nine, and Ja’Quavian Florence chipped in eight. Tech shot 41 percent (20-of-49) overall but struggled badly from long range at 2-of-20, a difference-maker in a two-point loss. West Georgia was paced by Chas Lewless and Shelton Williams-Dryden with 19 points each, and Josh Smith finished with 15. The Golden Eagles will quickly turn the page with a road trip to USC Upstate Wednesday; local fans in Nashville and beyond will be watching to see if Tech can regain home-game form on the road. KNOXVILLE — Later, the Volunteers put on a clinic. Tennessee (4-0) led wire-to-wire and improved its season-opening homestand record, extending an historic streak to 40 straight non-conference home wins — a stat that resonates in Nashville’s Vols circles. Senior forward Felix Okpara poured in a game- and career-high 20 points on 8-of-10 shooting and grabbed eight rebounds. Freshman Nate Ament notched his first college double-double with 19 points and a career-high 10 boards, while Ja’Kobi Gillespie added 17 points and a game-high eight assists. Ethan Burg contributed a career-best 11 points off the bench. Defensively, Tennessee smothered Rice early, allowing just one make on the Owls’ first nine field-goal attempts and limiting Rice to 24.1 percent shooting in the first half. Tre Broadnax, Rice’s top scorer, was held to five points and an unusual 0-of-16 from the floor — a defensive accomplishment that drew notice among Vols fans across Middle Tennessee. Tennessee dominated inside, outscoring Rice 52-16 in the paint, pulling down 47 total rebounds (18 offensive), and posting a team shooting clip north of 52 percent (34-of-65). Coach Rick Barnes recorded career victory No. 840, keeping his place atop active Division I wins, another talking point for the region. The Vols return to Food City Center Thursday against Tennessee State at 7 p.m., a matchup Nashville supporters will be eager to follow as Tennessee seeks to keep the momentum rolling.

Photo / Cumberland Athletics / Record breaking weekend The Nashville area’s college‑football weekend brought big performances and tough lessons for local teams. Cumberland 72, Faulkner 14 Cumberland closed its season with a program‑record offensive outburst, scoring a school‑best 72 points in a dominant win. QB Jake Parker was the catalyst, accounting for six total touchdowns as the program amassed 461 rushing yards. The 72–14 result capped a 7–4 season and highlighted Cumberland’s physical run game and balanced attack. Austin Peay 30, Samford 16 Austin Peay closed its home slate a perfect 6–0 for the first time since 1949, turning key turnovers into points in a statement win. Montreze Smith Jr. returned an interception for a touchdown and the defense recorded a season‑high 11 tackles for loss. QB Chris Parson passed for 265 yards and a touchdown, and Kaden Williams contributed both a rushing and receiving TD. The Governors now head into a crucial showdown at No. 5 Tarleton State on Nov. 22 looking to carry momentum into postseason play. Gardner‑Webb 30, Tennessee State 14 Tennessee State fell to 2–9 after a slow start left the Tigers down 23–0. Byron McNair showed flashes through the air, and Tennessee State’s defense limited Gardner‑Webb to 272 total yards, but the early deficit proved costly. With one game remaining, TSU will aim to finish the season on a positive note while addressing the issues that stalled their comeback. Kentucky 42, Tennessee Tech 10 Tennessee Tech’s 15‑game winning streak came to an end against SEC opponent Kentucky, but the Golden Eagles finished with a strong 10–1 record. QB Kekoa Visperas threw a touchdown against an aggressive defense, though Tech was outgained and unable to sustain drives. Tennessee Tech now turns its focus to a crucial matchup with UT Martin as it looks to regroup. WKU 42, Middle Tennessee 26 Middle Tennessee pushed Western Kentucky into the late stages but ultimately fell 42–26. In his first collegiate start, Roman Gagliano threw for 389 yards and two TDs and added 82 rushing yards, sparking multiple big plays — including a 52‑yard connection to Myles Butler and a 34‑yard TD run by DJ Taylor. Parker Hughes’ 62‑yard interception return provided a defensive highlight. Despite the loss, MTSU showed offensive promise and will honor seniors in the final home game against Sam Houston on Nov. 22. Vanderbilt (bye) Vanderbilt had the week off but climbed to No. 13 in the polls after its overtime win at Auburn. The Commodores are 8–2 and will return to action hosting Kentucky in a key late‑season test that could shape bowl positioning. Looking Ahead: With the regular season winding down, Nashville‑area teams face pivotal games that will determine bowl berths, postseason seeding and momentum into next year. From Austin Peay’s historic home run to Cumberland’s record scoring and Vanderbilt’s strong ranking the region’s programs have plenty to be proud of this season.

Photo | Thomas Corhern, TTU Athletics Media Relations This season, five Tennessee teams made waves in the NCAA women's tournament, each showcasing talent and determination despite differing outcomes. The Tennessee Lady Vols soccer team faced a tough first-round match, losing 3–1 to North Carolina. Tennessee finished the season 12–4–3. The Vols took an early lead when Kate Runyon scored in the 26th minute. A swift response from the Tar Heels shifted momentum pushing through three unanswered goals that ended Tennessee’s run. Head coach Joe Kirt expressed disappointment that the team could not preserve their advantage and reflected on defensive lapses. In contrast, Lipscomb’s women’s soccer team celebrated a milestone, defeating Mississippi State 1–0 to reach the second round for just the second time in program history. Bella Carapazza’s first-half goal, combined with a disciplined defensive effort, secured the win over the SEC opponent. Vanderbilt also advanced with a 2–0 victory over Tennessee Tech. Courtney Jones and Mary Beth McLaughlin scored in a match the Commodores controlled; Vanderbilt recorded 21 shots, demonstrating strong offensive pressure. The win sets up a second-round matchup against Clemson as Vanderbilt looks to build on its success. Memphis earned a thrilling 2–1 victory over Illinois thanks to two goals from Ai Kitagawa. The Tigers outshot their opponent and showed resilience under pressure, advancing to the NCAA second round for the fifth time in program history. Each Tennessee team left its mark on the tournament, underscoring the state’s growing influence in women’s collegiate soccer. Looking ahead, hopes remain high for continued success on the national stage.

Nashville, TN — The 2025 season has been a difficult one for Tennessee State University football. The Tigers enter the final two games of the season with a 2–8 overall record and 0–6 in conference play. With one home game remaining against Gardner‑Webb, the program is hoping to give seniors and hometown fans a positive note. This year also marks a significant transition, with first‑year head coach Reggie Barlow leading the team. New Leadership, Familiar Challenges Coach Barlow inherited a roster undergoing turnover. While he has praised the seniors for their dedication, the team has struggled for consistency on both sides of the ball. In a recent interview, Barlow emphasized the need for the defense to improve its quarterback‑contain and pass‑rush techniques to better limit mobile quarterbacks. Offensively, the Tigers have had trouble establishing a running game — in the loss to UT Martin they were outgained 339–153 in total yards, and the Skyhawks rushed for 292 yards while TSU produced minimal rushing yardage. Transfer Portal Impact Like many programs, TSU has been affected by the transfer portal. The loss of key contributors, including preseason HBCU All‑American Camani Cobbs shortly before the season opener, created depth issues and required younger, less experienced players to step into larger roles. While the portal can help fill needs, it can also disrupt continuity, particularly during a coaching transition. Bright Spots and Areas for Improvement There have been positive individual moments: senior James Stewart earned an invitation to the HBCU Legacy Bowl, giving him a stage to showcase his skills to NFL scouts. Still, overall consistency has been lacking, especially on defense and in the running game. Key priorities for Coach Barlow and his staff this offseason include: Recruiting and player development: Identify and develop players who fit the program’s vision for sustained success. Offensive consistency:  Build a more effective rushing attack and improve offensive efficiency. Defensive discipline:  Cut down on missed tackles and tighten pass coverage to better contain opponents. Transfer‑portal management:  Use transfers strategically to fill roster needs while preserving team stability. The home season finale against Gardner‑Webb is an opportunity for the Tigers to gain momentum and possibly pull out two wins before the offseason. With focused player development, strategic recruiting, and a clear long‑term plan, Tennessee State can begin rebuilding toward a more competitive program.

By David Oglesby In a remarkable display of skill and determination — and highlighting the dominance of Tennessee women’s soccer this year — the women’s soccer teams from Lipscomb, Tennessee Tech, and Vanderbilt each clinched their conference championships, setting the stage for an exciting NCAA Tournament. These victories mark major milestones for the programs and position all three teams as strong contenders on the national stage. Photo by Lipscomb Athletics Lipscomb University — A Historic Win, Lipscomb continued its recent dominance, winning the ASUN Championship for the second straight year with a 3–0 victory over North Florida at the Lipscomb Soccer Complex. The Bisons controlled the match from the start, dictating tempo and creating the better chances. Graduate student Maddy Rhodes opened the scoring in the 27th minute with a back‑heel finish from a driven ball into the box. Junior captain Bella Carapazza marshaled the midfield all afternoon and was named ASUN Tournament MVP for her tournament‑long contributions. In the 65th minute senior captain Lucy Hurst finished a rebound to make it 2–0, and junior forward Hailey Johnson sealed the title in the 74th minute with a composed strike to push the score to 3–0. Defensively Lipscomb was resolute, with the back line and goalkeeper Kaïna Cesar preserving the clean sheet. Lauren Bennett, Hailey Johnson, and Tatum Ahlemeyer joined Carapazza on the ASUN All‑Tournament Team. With the win the Bisons secured the ASUN’s automatic bid to the 2025 NCAA Tournament and will aim to defend their program’s conference crown on the national stage. The NCAA selection show is scheduled for Monday, November 10 at 3 p.m. CST. Photo by TTU Sports Tennessee Tech — Rising to the Challenge, Tennessee Tech soccer reached the summit, claiming the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) Tournament championship with a 2–0 victory over Lindenwood. In the 79th minute, Katie Toney scored twice in a span of 34 seconds — first heading home an assist from Tori Soutuyo, then converting a penalty after Natalie Howard was fouled — to lift the Golden Eagles to the title. Tech’s defense limited Lindenwood to just one second‑half shot, and goalkeeper Maggie Conrad made five saves to record her 24th career clean sheet and was named OVC Tournament MVP. The Golden Eagles (7–6–8) earned the OVC’s automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament — Tech’s second NCAA appearance and first since 2000 — and extended their program‑record unbeaten streak to 11 matches. Toney’s brace moved her to 23 career goals, one shy of second place on the program’s all‑time scoring list. Tech also tied the program record with five consecutive shutouts and placed four players (Conrad, Toney, Melina Hamm, and Ebba Melin) on the OVC All‑Tournament team. TTU Athletics will host a free viewing party Monday during the NCAA selection show in the Eagles Nest at the Hooper Eblen Center. Photo by Vanderbilt Athletics Vanderbilt captured the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Championship in dramatic fashion, defeating LSU on penalties after a 1–1 draw. The Commodores entered the tournament as the No. 2 seed, riding a six‑game winning streak and a No. 8 national ranking, and finished the SEC Tournament with three wins to claim their first SEC title since 2020 and the program’s fifth overall. After a quarterfinal 2–1 win over Alabama—sparked by goals from Reagan Pentz and Olivia Stafford—and a dominant semifinal performance against No. 19 Georgia highlighted by a two‑goal game from Sydney Watts, Vanderbilt faced LSU in the final. The championship was decided by an extended penalty shootout, which Vanderbilt won, with goalkeeper Sara Wojdelko making key saves and playing an instrumental leadership role. Wojdelko earned SEC Goalkeeper of the Year honors during the season and was outstanding in Pensacola, recording 10 saves across the three tournament matches and several crucial stops in the shootout. Her play helped anchor a defense that produced multiple clean sheets and gave the Commodores the platform to flourish offensively. With the SEC crown, Vanderbilt extended its winning streak to nine matches. The Commodores enter the NCAA Tournament as one of the region’s most formidable teams and are expected to receive a top seed, setting them up to host early rounds and make a deep postseason run. Looking Ahead - As the NCAA Tournament begins, Lipscomb, Tennessee Tech, and Vanderbilt each bring distinct strengths and depth to the field. Fans across Tennessee are rallying behind these teams and others (expect Memphis and the Vols to also recieve bids into the NCAA tournament), as Tennessee soccer has a great chance to go deep in the tournament. Beyond immediate results, these programs represent a pipeline of talent that will keep Tennessee colleges successful for years to come.