MEMPHIS, TN - The Nashville Sounds evened their series in Memphis with a 5–3 victory on Friday night at AutoZone Park, handing the Redbirds a late-game scare before closing it out for a second straight win. Jeferson Quero delivered the headline moment, launching his first career grand slam in the top of the first inning—then Nashville’s bullpen and defense held firm as Memphis rallied late. The Sounds wasted little time creating separation. After loading the bases in the opening frame on a Bo Naylor double, a Luke Adams walk, and catcher's interference drawing up Akil Baddoo, Quero stepped to the plate with one out. Facing Brewers left-hander Quinn Mathews, Quero went to work on the very first pitch he saw, sending a long ball over the left-center field wall to give Nashville a four-run cushion. Brett Wichrowski started for the Sounds and set the tone early with two hitless innings. Jack Seppings then took over in relief and earned his second straight win. Seppings worked around a pair of hits and a couple of walks, striking out two while going 3.2 innings scoreless. Nashville stretched the lead further in the sixth inning. Eric Brown Jr. began the frame with a single, swiped second, and advanced to third on an errant throw. Adams later cashed in with a sacrifice fly to make it 5–0. Memphis finally found traction in the eighth. After Seppings’ night ended, Will Childers recorded a pair of quick outs before the Redbirds chipped away. Grant Anderson allowed a single, followed by another knock, and Joshua Baez then launched a three-run homer to cut the deficit to 5–3. The Redbirds’ comeback charge stalled when the inning ended on a second strikeout with two outs. In the ninth, Blake Holub closed the door. After striking out his first two batters, he allowed a two-out single to keep the tying run on base, but a final line drive was caught by Ethan Murray to end the game and secure Holub’s fourth save. The series continues Saturday night with first pitch set for 6:35 p.m., featuring Nashville’s Garrett Stallings versus former Brewers farmhand Mason Molina.

MEMPHIS, TN - Coleman Crow delivered another standout performance, spinning six scoreless innings to guide the Nashville Sounds to a 2-1 victory over the Memphis Redbirds at AutoZone Park. Nashville grabbed an early lead with two runs in the fifth inning and preserved the advantage through a tense finish, earning their first win of the series. Crow, the Brewers’ No. 22-rated prospect, once again proved why he’s one of the most consistent arms in the minors. He started the game in classic fashion, keeping the Redbirds off the board while working through traffic and limiting damage. Even when Memphis reached base—most notably with a leadoff single in the fourth—Crow responded by preventing rallies, including turning a key sequence into an escape to maintain the shutout. The game turned in the top of the fifth. With bases loaded after consecutive Sound advances, Ethan Murray, Jeferson Quero, and Eric Brown Jr. helped create momentum that turned into runs. Quero scored on a miscue and the Sounds added a second when Freddy Zamora brought Darrien Miller home on a sacrifice fly. From there, Nashville stayed patient, extended at-bats, and kept the pressure on. Offensively, the Sounds produced five hits, with Tyler Black extending his hitting streak to six games. Black singled to start the sixth and continued to provide energy at the top of the lineup. Meanwhile, the Nashville bullpen kept Memphis at bay after Crow’s departure, including a scoreless stretch that held the Redbirds in check deep into the late innings. In the ninth, Drew Rom took the mound and fought through trouble, but Memphis finally found a crack. After a leadoff single and a wild pitch put a runner in scoring position, the Redbirds pushed across a run with two outs, but the rally ended there as Nashville secured the 2-1 win. Up next: The Sounds and Redbirds continue their series Friday night with first pitch scheduled for 7:05 p.m. at AutoZone Park. Brett Wichrowski is set to start for Nashville.

By David Oglesby LEBANON, TN - Cumberland University football enters the preseason with a clear message at the center of camp: build relationships first, and everything else—confidence, discipline, execution, and winning—follows. Head coach Mathis has framed the team’s identity around a simple belief: elite football teams play for each other when the game is on the line. It’s not about individual stats or personal platforms; it’s about how the other ten players in the huddle affect how you play and how you feel. That mindset comes into this year with momentum. Cumberland finished last season at 7–4, and their results showed a team capable of both physical ground play and sharp, momentum-changing performances. The offense averaged 31.45 points per game, totaling 346 points, while the overall offense produced 4,370 yards and 45 touchdowns. Even in games that didn’t go their way, the team’s foundation remained consistent: they played fast, competed hard in all phases, and trusted one another enough to keep pushing. A Winning Standard Built by Staying Home (and Playing for Each Other) Coach Mathis highlighted something Cumberland has tried to protect and defend: success at home. Last season, the team was undefeated at home, turning the Nokes-Lasater Field experience into more than a venue—it became an advantage, helped by the fans that act like a “12th man.” That goal remains central as the Phoenix prepare to open this year with a prime test in it's home opener later this month. The coach also pointed to leadership and returners as a major reason the team doesn’t have to start over. He noted that 9 of 11 on offense and 9 of 11 on defense returned, meaning the players aren’t learning a brand-new system or adjusting to a brand-new standard. When continuity exists, camp can focus more on refinement than reinvention. Camp Battles: Offense Rebuild, Defense Depth, and Quarterback Growth While the overall team structure returns, preseason work still has defined targets. On offense, coach Mathis emphasized the need to replace key spots, including the left tackle and running back, along with attention to depth. Those are the kinds of jobs that sound small on paper but matter enormously when the season starts—because a dominant rushing attack depends on protection, angles, leverage, and timing at every position. The quarterback story also shows what this camp is really about: growth under pressure and learning how to maximize a new style. Quarterback Jake Parker, a fifth-year senior, described last season as a major adjustment phase because he didn’t see significant snaps until later in the year (waiting until week six). Coming from programs built heavily around different running styles and offensive identities, Parker had to adapt to Cumberland’s scheme—especially the quarterback run emphasis. Now, he says, he is more comfortable and confident, with the run game becoming an “asset” rather than a challenge. Parker also emphasized what leadership looks like as an offensive centerpiece: don’t waver in tough moments, communicate clearly, and understand that different players need different coaching—some hard teaching, some soft support, but always with the same end goal: execution. Defense Identity: Physical, Fast, and Creating Chaos On the defensive side, the Phoenix camp energy has centered on imposing physicality early and forcing opponents to adjust. Defensive leader Charles Kennedy Johnson—a senior safety from Maryville, Tennessee—spoke about maintaining a standard that includes being the focal point of opposing offenses. After earning first-team All-American recognition last season, he knows teams will look for ways to attack him, game-plan around his presence, and test whether Cumberland’s defense can still function when the “target” is engaged. But Johnson’s answer was confident: even if opponents focus on him, Cumberland has other playmakers who can make them pay. He sees his safety role as both a calling-and-communication position and a safety net—knowing what to do when coverage breaks down and helping teammates align correctly across multiple responsibilities. Johnson also described the defensive identity: hard, fast, and physical football, with the goal of creating chaos in the offense through quarterback pressure and attacking schemes. His focus on man-to-man, zone, and aggressive pressure fits the overall culture coach Mathis has promoted—play for each other, and play with urgency. Coming Off Last Season’s Productive Offense and Competitive Games Cumberland’s 2025 season wasn’t just a record—it was a profile. Offensively, they balanced the run and pass effectively enough to keep defenses honest. They ranked strong in rushing output with 2,605 rushing yards gained and efficient averages per attempt, while passing production delivered key touchdowns through multiple contributors. Defensively, the unit produced turnovers and disruption. In the individual defensive stats provided for key players, Cumberland’s defense consistently generated tackles for loss, sacks, forced fumbles, and interceptions—showing that camp’s emphasis on pressure and physical play wasn’t theoretical; it was already part of how the team found momentum late in games. The 2026 Schedule Begins: St. Thomas at Home, Then a Road-Test This year’s camp focus quickly becomes real when Cumberland steps into week zero. Thursday, Aug. 27 (6:00 PM): Cumberland hosts St. Thomas University (Fla.) at Nokes-Lasater Field in Lebanon, Tennessee. Coach Mathis specifically noted that St. Thomas has been a playoff-caliber program in recent years—so Cumberland isn’t opening easy. It’s a statement opportunity, and it fits the team identity: relationships, intensity, and execution early. After that, the Phoenix move into a challenging stretch of matchups: Sep. 12 (6:00 PM) at Ave Maria University Sep. 19 (6:00 PM) vs. University of Pikeville Sep. 26 (1:30 PM) vs. Florida Memorial University Oct. 3 (1:30 PM) vs. Georgetown College (Ky.) Oct. 10 (2:00 PM) at Andrew College Oct. 17 (12:30 PM) at MSC vs. Campbellsville University (Ky.) Oct. 24 (5:00 PM) at University of the Cumberlands (Ky.) Oct. 31 (1:30 PM) vs. Lindsey Wilson University (Ky.) Nov. 7 (1:00 PM) at Faulkner University (Ala.) Nov. 14 (1:30 PM) vs. Bethel University (Tenn.) Camp’s Bottom Line: A Team Built to Win Together Cumberland’s preseason message isn’t complicated, but it’s demanding. Love each other and play for each other. Maintain standards. Keep leaders engaged. Refine the details—protect the quarterback, replace critical spots on the offensive line and at running back, sort defensive depth, and communicate on the back end. If the Phoenix can blend last season’s production with this year’s camp identity, the team won’t just be ready for kickoff. They’ll be ready to compete—every week, every snap, and especially in the moments when games are decided by relationships as much as talent.

MEMPHIS, TN - The Nashville Sounds suffered a heartbreaking, second straight walk-off loss to the Memphis Redbirds on Wednesday night at AutoZone Park, dropping a 5-4 decision after a ninth-inning rally nearly delivered a comeback victory. Colton Gordon put together another strong outing, recording his second quality start of the season and fifth overall, but it wasn’t enough to hold back Memphis’ powerful offense. Gordon retired five of the first six batters to open the game, and the Sounds even came close to scoring early. After recording baserunners, including hits by Ethan Murray and Eduardo Garcia plus three walks, Nashville stranded four runners through the early portion of the contest and entered the fifth inning still scoreless. The Sounds finally broke the tie in the sixth. With two outs, Luke Adams doubled into left-center field for his ninth extra-base hit of the season. Jeferson Quero followed with a single to left, driving Adams home for a 1-0 lead. However, Memphis answered in the same frame after Gordon allowed back-to-back singles. A costly baserunning moment swung momentum when Nashville attempted to pick off Victor Scott II attempting to steal third, and the play went awry as Scott crossed the plate. Nolan Gorman then crushed a two-run homer in the right field, giving the Redbirds a 3-1 lead. Gordon finished 6.0 innings with eight hits, three runs (two earned), four strikeouts, and two walks before being replaced by major league rehabber Joel Kuhnel in the seventh. Kuhnel got through a scoreless inning, and Kaleb Bowman later allowed Memphis to add an insurance run in the eighth. Nashville’s offense refused to go quietly in the ninth. The first four batters reached base against Blake Holub, including a hit-by-pitch and two additional walks loaded the bases. Bo Naylor drove in Adams with an RBI single, then Ethan Murray followed with a sacrifice fly to pull Nashville within one. After Jacob Hurtubise pinch-ran and advanced twice, Luis Matos beat the throw for an infield single that plated Black to tie the game at four with one out. But Memphis delivered in the bottom half. Holub retired the first batter, yet Brody Moore doubled and served as the winning run. A later single by Noah Mendlinger ended the contest as the Sounds dropped the game on a walk-off. The Sounds and Redbirds continue the series Thursday evening at 6:45 p.m., with RHP Coleman Crow scheduled to start for Nashville.

MEMPHIS, TN -The Nashville Sounds absorbed their largest loss of the 2026 season on Tuesday night, falling 13-2 to the Memphis Redbirds at AutoZone Park. Despite showing flashes offensively, Nashville couldn’t slow Memphis early, ultimately surrendering a seven-run second inning and getting no real traction as the Redbirds pulled away for an 11-run win. Luis Matos helped keep the Sounds’ hopes alive with a four-hit performance, while Drew Rom delivered another strong outing by extending his streak of not allowing an earned run to 14.2 innings. But the damage done by Memphis early proved too much to overcome, especially after Nashville’s pitchers found themselves in trouble in the second. After Tyson Hardin and Brandt Thompson navigated the first inning with some early defensive help, Hardin ran into trouble in the bottom of the second. A streak of hits quickly added up to trouble, and each of the first eight batters reached before Hardin was replaced. Nolan Gorman capped the damage with a three-run home run to right-center, pushing Memphis to a commanding 7-0 lead. Memphis didn’t stop there. The Redbirds added three more runs in the third after loading the bases via singles and forcing walks, taking a 10-0 advantage. Nashville finally broke through in the fourth when Luke Adams was hit by pitch, advanced on an infield single and a throwing error, and eventually scored on Bo Naylor’s first-hit-and-RBI moment with the Sounds. Rom rebounded to work through the middle frames, setting up a strong stretch of run prevention. Still, Memphis found another gear late. Cameron Wagoner allowed a run in the eighth before a two-run Thomas Saggese homer pushed the lead to 13-1. Akil Baddoo drove in Nashville’s second run in the ninth with an RBI single, but it was too late as Memphis closed it out. Nashville finished with 10 hits, getting multi-hit nights from Matos, Baddoo, and Tyler Black, while five Memphis starters produced extra-base or multi-hit output—including four-hit performances from Leo Bernal and Ramon Mendoza. The Sounds and Redbirds continue their series Wednesday evening. LHP Colton Gordon (6-5, 4.05 ERA) is set to start for Nashville, with first pitch scheduled for 6:45 p.m.

Photo / Nashville SC WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last weekend MLS-leading Nashville Soccer Club extended its unbeaten run after settling for a 2-2 draw with D.C. United at Audi Field on Saturday night. The Boys in Gold remain unbeaten in 11 of their last 12 league matches, posting a record of 8 wins, 1 loss, and 3 draws over that stretch, and sit atop MLS with 40 points. The evening belonged to Sam Surridge, who converted a penalty kick in the 32nd minute to score his 50th-career MLS goal, adding to his growing milestone resume. His tally also marked Nashville’s 300th regular-season goal in club history. Surridge finished the match as a key figure in a tightly contested affair, bringing his total to 11 MLS goals this season. Midfielder Shak Mohammed added another Nashville strike, scoring his third goal of the campaign in the 40th minute and earning Man of the Match honors. With maximum efficiency, Mohammed found the net despite limited regular-season starts—coming in just his fifth start and eighth MLS appearance of the season. D.C. United fought back after Nashville took the lead twice. Silvan Hefti leveled the match in the 56th minute, and Tai Baribo restored the tie again at 77th minute, ensuring both sides shared the points. Several storylines emerged beyond the goals. Elias Saad, acquired on loan from FC Augsburg on July 16, made his Nashville SC and MLS debut as a substitute in the 62nd minute. Brian Schwake recorded five saves in goal for Nashville, helping preserve the point. Nashville’s next challenge is the start of Leagues Cup 2026, when the club hosts Liga MX powerhouse Club Léon at GEODIS Park on Wednesday, August 5, at 7:30 p.m. CT.

COOKEVILLE, TN - The Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles are headed into the 2026 season with national momentum already on their side. In the first Stats Perform FCS Top 25 poll released for the year, Tennessee Tech earned a No. 14 ranking, marking the program’s strong position as fall camp approaches. The Golden Eagles finished the 2025 season ranked No. 16, and the early jump reflects continued expectations for a squad that went 11-2 last season, including an impressive 8-0 run through Ohio Valley Conference play. Tennessee Tech’s ranking came after voters—members of FCS conferences and media—awarded the Golden Eagles 594 points in the inaugural poll. Defending FCS champion Montana State topped the field, receiving all 57 first-place votes and 1,425 points. Montana State was followed by South Dakota State, Illinois State, Tarleton State, and UC Davis as the early leaders of the subdivision. The Golden Eagles are not just breaking into the national rankings—they are also carrying recognition at the conference level. Earlier in the week, Tech attended its first Southern Conference football media day, where the program was selected second in the SoCon preseason poll. Reigning conference champion Mercer won the top spot, while Tennessee Tech received three first-place votes and 70 points. Under head coaching expectations and a talent group loaded with preseason honors, Tennessee Tech also placed four players on the Southern Conference Preseason All-Conference team, all on the second-team offense. Quarterback Jax Leatherwood, running back Marcus Harris, offensive lineman Eric Nunez, and tight end Gerard Grewe were recognized for their impact and production heading into the new season. The national recognition continues as running back M.J. Flowers was also added to the Walter Payton Award Preseason Watch List, an honor given to the top offensive player in FCS, often described as the subdivision’s Heisman-style accolade. Tennessee Tech will open the 2026 season on August 29 at home against Monmouth, kicking off a schedule that begins with renewed anticipation and a fresh national spotlight.

NASHVILLE, TN - The Sounds found an extra gear in the eighth inning on Sunday night, using timely hitting and steady pitching to defeat the Charlotte Knights 5-3 in a rain-soaked game at Horizon Park and manager Rick Sweet moves into second for all-time wins as a minor league manager. After falling behind early in the flow of the matchup, the Sounds struck first in the third inning. Eduardo Garcia set things up with a single, and the Nashville offense continued when the next at-bat produced a key hit that sent a run across, giving the Sounds an early 1-0 advantage. Charlotte answered later, pushing back into the game with runs that kept the score moving. The turning point came when Eduardo Garcia again delivered big impact at the plate—driving a home run that helped Nashville regain the lead at 2-1 in the fifth inning. The Knights tied things up briefly before the game tightened again in the eighth. Austin Hayes helped Charlotte take a short lead with a two-run homer, but Nashville refused to let the moment last. Tyler Black recorded a sacrifice fly to even the score at 3-3, and Darian Miller followed with a two-run double that put the Sounds ahead 5-3. From there, Nashville’s pitching held the line despite a late push from Charlotte. The Sounds escaped a bases-loaded situation in the ninth, and Andy Weber’s ground ball turned into a double play to end the game and secure the win. With five runs on ten hits and solid defense throughout, the Sounds closed the series with a victory over Charlotte. A win that makes Rick Sweet second by himself all time. in minor league managerial wins. He was tied with Bob Coleman and now moves ahead with 2497 wins in a long and successful career. Next up for Nashville is an off day followed by Tuesday night’s matchup against the Memphis Redbirds at AutoZone Park, with first pitch scheduled for 6:45 p.m.

NASHVILLE, TN - Nashville struck early and kept the pressure on all night, defeating the Charlotte Knights 6-3 Saturday at First Horizon Park in front of another sellout crowd. The Sounds used a five-run first inning to take control, then leaned on effective bullpen work to claim their second straight win and improve to a 15-17 record in the second half. The game turned in the opening frame. Nashville manager Rick Sweet watched his club survive a tense situation on the mound—after forcing a bases-loaded jam, the Sounds allowed just one hit and escaped the inning despite throwing 31 pitches. Almost immediately, the offense responded. Carlos Rodriguez received run support from a lineup that batted through the order against major league rehabber Tyler Gilbert, scoring five runs on five hits to build a commanding 5-0 lead. Luis Matos ignited the rally with a leadoff double. Tyler Black followed with a two-RBI double down the left-field line, and Andrick Nava added a two-RBI single. Freddy Zamora capped the inning with his first triple of the season, driving in Nava to finish the five-run outburst. Rodriguez’s night ended quickly in the second inning, but Nashville’s early cushion proved more than enough. The Sounds’ pitching unit played its part, with newly added right-hander Jack Seppings making his Triple-A debut in relief. Seppings retired the first three hitters he faced, and he strung together six straight outs before a walk in the fourth and a bunt single threatened again. He closed with 3+ scoreless frames, working around multiple baserunners and recording three strikeouts. Charlotte did make it interesting, scoring later on a two-run home run by Riley Unroe and another shot in the ninth, but Nashville answered with enough defensive efficiency and bullpen composure to preserve the lead. The series wraps Sunday evening, with first pitch set for 6:35 p.m. For Sweet, the win was especially meaningful—career victory No. 2,496, tying Bob Coleman for the second-most in Minor League Baseball history.

NASHVILLE, TN - The Nashville Sounds snapped a three-game slide Friday night and secured their first win of the series, topping the Charlotte Knights 4-2 at First Horizon Park in front of a sellout crowd. Coleman Crow delivered another steady performance on the mound, running through five and two-thirds innings while keeping Charlotte in check. He finished with 5.2 innings pitched, allowing three hits and two earned runs, while striking out six and walking four. Crow even nearly strung together a third straight quality start, with his momentum halted in the sixth inning when Austin Hays helped end a no-hit bid with a one-out double. Despite a low-hit night early, the Sounds made their opportunities count. Nashville struck first with help from patience and mistakes, including a bases-loaded walk in the fourth inning and a wild pitch in the fifth that scored Brandon Lockridge after he drew one of the team’s eight walks through the opening frames. Even with only two hits through the first several innings, the Sounds built a 2-0 lead and stayed in control. The Knights answered, tying the game at 2-2, highlighted by Ryan Galanie’s seventh home run in 15 games and his third in four contests. Then came the difference—late. After Eduardo Garcia doubled in the sixth and Nashville stranded runners, the offense finally broke through in the bottom of the eighth. Tyler Black opened the inning with the first hit of the frame. Darrien Miller followed with a clutch RBI double into the right-field corner to score Black easily. Garcia added another hit, and Lockridge drove in the go-ahead run with a sacrifice fly, pushing Nashville ahead 4-2. From there, Drew Rom retired three straight after a leadoff single, sealing the victory and extending his scoreless streak. The Sounds will aim to keep rolling on Saturday night with Garrett Stallings (3-3, 3.70 ERA) set to start for Nashville to begin August.

By David Oglesby As the calendar flips toward August, sports fans begin to gear up for the familiar anticipation of college football. From the bright lights of the SEC to the hard-nosed battles of the FCS and the competitive trenches of the NAIA, five programs with deep ties to the Nashville area are preparing for the 2026 season. Vanderbilt, Tennessee State, Austin Peay, Tennessee Tech, and Cumberland University each carry different expectations, but all share the same goal: make noise in their respective levels and give local fans something to cheer about. Vanderbilt Commodores (FBS – Southeastern Conference) Last season the Commodores delivered one of the most impressive campaigns in recent program history, finishing 10-3 overall and 6-2 in the SEC under head coach Clark Lea. A late-season win over rival Tennessee capped a remarkable year that ended with a bowl appearance and a final ranking in the top 15. Strengths heading into 2026 include returning experience on both lines of scrimmage and a coaching staff that has finally found consistency in the ultra-competitive SEC. The offense showed it could score on anyone, and the defense improved markedly in the second half of last season. Weaknesses remain depth at the skill positions and the brutal nature of an SEC schedule that rarely offers easy weeks. Game of the year: the annual showdown with Tennessee. A second straight win over the Vols would cement Vanderbilt’s rise and electrify Nashville. Prediction: 9-3 overall, 5-3 in conference, with another bowl berth locked in. Postseason football is expected once again on West End. Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders (FBS – Conference USA) The Blue Raiders endured another tough campaign in 2025, finishing 3-9 overall and 2-6 in Conference USA in their second year under head coach Derek Mason. Early-season struggles were compounded by defensive breakdowns, though back-to-back victories over Sam Houston and New Mexico State to close out November provided a glimpse of potential to build on. Strengths heading into 2026 center on organizational stability and late-season momentum. University leadership reaffirmed their commitment to Mason, and offseason coaching reshuffles—particularly on the offensive side of the ball—bring fresh ideas to spark production. Weaknesses remain a defense that surrendered nearly 31 points per game last fall, an inconsistent running game, and the need for more discipline to turn close CUSA losses into wins. Game of the year: the annual "100 Miles of Hate" rivalry game against Western Kentucky. Reclaiming bragging rights over the Hilltoppers would be a major signature win for Mason's tenure. Prediction: 5-7 overall, 3-5 in conference. While a bowl bid will require a significant leap, taking a visible step forward is the baseline requirement in Murfreesboro this fall. Tennessee State Tigers (FCS – Big South-OVC) The Tigers endured a difficult 2025, finishing 2-10 and 0-8 in conference play in the first year under head coach Reggie Barlow. Offensive production lagged and defensive consistency never fully arrived. Strengths this year start with a full offseason under the new staff and the talent pipeline that historically runs through Nashville’s HBCU powerhouse. The program still draws strong local recruits and maintains a proud tradition. Weaknesses are obvious: finding a reliable quarterback and shoring up a defense that allowed too many big plays last fall. Game of the year: the always-emotional matchup with rival Tennessee Tech or a potential high-profile non-conference tilt. Prediction: 5-6 overall, 3-5 in conference. A winning season remains a stretch, and postseason play is unlikely unless significant progress shows up early. Austin Peay Governors (FCS – United Athletic Conference) The Governors posted a solid 7-5 mark in 2025 (4-4 UAC) and enter the new season with momentum. Quarterback play and a balanced attack helped them stay competitive throughout the year. Strengths include returning skill-position talent and a coaching staff that has the program trending upward. Home dominance at Fortera Stadium remains a calling card. Weaknesses center on road performance and the need to generate more consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Game of the year: the early-season trip to Vanderbilt. A competitive showing against an FBS foe would set the tone for a strong UAC campaign. Prediction: 8-4 overall, 5-3 in conference, with a realistic shot at an FCS playoff berth if they can win the close games. Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles (FCS – Southern Conference) Coming off an outstanding 11-2 season and an undefeated conference mark in the Big South-OVC, the Golden Eagles make the jump to the Southern Conference in 2026. The move raises the bar significantly. Strengths are clear: a proven winning culture under coach Bobby Wilder, elite offensive production last year, and the confidence that comes with back-to-back strong seasons. Weaknesses will be tested by a tougher overall schedule and the adjustment to new league rivals such as Mercer, Furman, and Chattanooga. Game of the year: any of the early SoCon tests, particularly a potential home date against a ranked conference foe. Prediction: 9-3 overall, top-three finish in the SoCon, and another FCS playoff appearance. The Golden Eagles look built to compete immediately in their new home. Cumberland University Phoenix (NAIA – Mid-South Conference) The Phoenix finished 7-4 overall and 3-3 in Mid-South play in 2025, showing they can hang with the upper tier of NAIA football. Located just east of Nashville in Lebanon, Cumberland continues to punch above its weight. Strengths include a physical style of play and the ability to score in bunches when the offense clicks. Weaknesses remain consistency against the conference’s top programs and depth on the defensive side of the ball. Game of the year: the annual battles with traditional Mid-South powers such as Lindsey Wilson or Georgetown. A win over one of those teams would go a long way toward a playoff push. Prediction: 8-3 overall, 4-2 in conference, with a legitimate chance to reach the NAIA postseason if they can secure a few more signature victories. Across all five programs, the common thread is opportunity. Vanderbilt aims to prove 2025 was no fluke. Austin Peay and Tennessee Tech enter with genuine postseason aspirations. Tennessee State seeks stability and progress. Cumberland looks to climb the NAIA ladder. For fans throughout Middle Tennessee, the 2026 season offers plenty of reasons to fill the stands and follow the local product. Kickoff can’t come soon enough.

NASHVILLE, TN - The Nashville Sounds couldn’t finish the comeback against Charlotte, dropping a 6-4 decision on Thursday night at First Horizon Park. Colton Gordon delivered five strong innings in his second start at First Horizon Park and third overall with Nashville, but the Sounds couldn’t overcome Charlotte’s early damage. Gordon worked out of trouble after an explosive first inning that left him in a hole. Still, he settled down, retiring 13 of the next 15 Knights he faced and giving Nashville a chance to rally throughout the night. Charlotte struck first in the top of the first. Former Sound Eric Haase delivered the big blow, plating three with a bases-clearing, 3-RBI double after Gordon walked and singled his way into trouble early. Even though Gordon eventually found his rhythm, the damage proved costly. Nashville answered immediately. The Sounds tied the game with a two-double surge featuring Brewers prospect Brock Wilken and later took their first lead of the night in the fourth inning. Wilken’s bat stayed hot, as he doubled and drove in a run, helping Nashville go ahead 4-3. Eduardo Garcia also played a key role in that push, reaching via walk and stealing before moving to third. The Knights regained control in the sixth. After Lyon Richardson entered, Haase added to his standout night with his fifth RBI and a two-run homer that put Charlotte back in front. Charlotte added insurance late, as Riley Unroe hit a two-out solo homer in the ninth and the Sounds’ late comeback attempt fell short. Ethan Murray took the mound for Nashville for a one-run game situation, but Unroe’s homer pushed the Knights’ lead to two. Nashville ultimately left the potential tying runs aboard and finished with 12 total left on base. The series continues Friday night at 6:35 p.m., with Nashville sending RHP Coleman Crow (5-1, 4.22) to face Charlotte’s RHP David Sandlin (1-0, 2.37).

NASHVILLE, TN -The Nashville Sounds dropped their second straight game to the Charlotte Knights on Wednesday night, falling 12–5 at First Horizon Park. Charlotte took control early and never looked back, despite the Sounds posting a late surge that included two additional home runs. The Knights finished with a big offensive output, highlighted by a seven-run fourth inning that flipped momentum after Nashville briefly reclaimed the lead. Brock Wilken left his mark for the Sounds, adding his 11th home run of the season with a two-out, two-run blast in the bottom of the ninth to bring the final tally to 12–5. Luke Adams also contributed late, drawing a two-out walk that set the stage for Wilken’s surge. Nashville’s offense was powered by early homers and first-time moments at First Horizon Park. Brandon Lockridge opened the scoring in the bottom of the first with a one-out solo shot—his first since July 20, 2025, and his first as a member of the Milwaukee Brewers organization. Andrick Nava added a second solo homer for the Sounds in the bottom of the first to extend Nashville’s lead to two. Eduardo Garcia continued the historic home-run theme in the bottom of the third, launching his first career long ball at the park and putting the Sounds back on top. Garcia ended an eight-game hitless drought in the series, and he finished the night with his second home run against Charlotte this season. On the mound, Tyson Hardin made his 13th start but ran into trouble in the top of the third. He surrendered a two-run homer to Ryan Galanie to tie the game at two, marking Hardin’s first home run allowed since June 20. Charlotte then erupted, including additional damage from multiple extra-base plays and a seven-run inning that built a 9–3 lead. The Sounds and Knights continue the series Thursday night with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m. at First Horizon Park.

NASHVILLE, TN —The Nashville Sounds nearly got shut out in their six-game series opener against the Charlotte Knights at First Horizon Park, spoiling Charlotte’s goose-egg bid with a dramatic ninth-inning run in a 6-1 Sounds loss on Tuesday night. Charlotte struck early when Ryan Galanie launched a two-run homer in the top of the first inning, a blast that proved to be the difference in the series opener. The Knights then widened the advantage further in the middle innings, pushing the lead to six runs on a second home run and adding pressure after a relief pitching change. Brandon Lockridge, who was in the middle of his Major League rehab assignment, helped keep Nashville in the game—finishing with two hits and eventually recording his first run of the night in the ninth. On the mound, Sounds starter Brett Wichrowski made his first start and second appearance since an extended stay on the Injured List. He worked 1.1 innings and faced eight batters, while Charlotte’s relief corps did the heavy lifting through the early middle frames. After the Knights’ offense pulled ahead, Jose Urquidy took the ball for Charlotte and held Nashville at bay for much of his outing, allowing just two Sounds hits through five scoreless innings. Left-hander Hagen Smith followed with a perfect sixth inning, striking out two, before handing the ball to Mason Adams to close things out. Nashville’s breakthrough came late. In the ninth inning, Lockridge opened the frame with a one-out single and was joined by a pair of free passes to load the bases. Jeferson Quero then barreled a ball that turned into a key defensive moment, as Lockridge was able to scoot home on an error—giving the Sounds their lone run of the game. But the late rally was short-lived; another extended plate appearance ended with a play at first base to extinguish Nashville’s comeback hopes. Lockridge also collected his first multi-hit game in three contests with the Sounds, and he now looks to build momentum as the series continues. Game two is Wednesday night, when Tyson Hardin—ranked as Nashville’s Brewers No. 9 prospect—will get the ball for the Sounds as they aim to even the series.

Photo / Trevecca Athletics NASHVILLE, TN — Mark Elliott, the long-serving director of athletics at Trevecca Nazarene University, will retire at the end of the 2026–27 academic year, closing a 16-year tenure that helped reshape Trojan athletics from a developing program into a sustained NCAA Division II contender. Elliott’s leadership has spanned three transformative eras: Trevecca’s transition to NCAA Division II, the creation of the Great Midwest Athletic Conference, and the Trojans’ more recent move to the Gulf South Conference—an adjustment approved for membership effective July 1, 2024. Under his watch, Trevecca also built an athletic culture defined by Christian-Scholar-Athlete priorities, expanded opportunities for student-athletes, and earned consistent national academic recognition. Trevecca President Dan Boone introduced Elliott as the University’s 13th director of athletics on July 12, 2011, one day after the NCAA accepted Trevecca’s application to begin the Division II membership process. Elliott officially began on July 18, 2011. “Sixteen years ago, we sat in my office and talked about the role of Trevecca’s athletic director,” Boone said. “His clear focus on the priorities of Christian-Scholar-Athlete was as aspirational then as they are visible now. Mark Elliott has served the University as a man of faith, a mentor to coaches, and an example to athletes.” Elliott said his planned retirement will not change how he leads through his final year. “There is no sunset here. I intend to sprint through the finish line,” he said, adding that the timing calls for “new vision, new eyes, and new leadership.” A founding conference leader, Elliott helped guide Trevecca into the Great Midwest as a charter member and served in the early league period in an administrative leadership role. He later led Trevecca through the Gulf South transition, positioning the Trojans in a more regional Division II footprint. On the academic side, Trevecca’s performance has mirrored the department’s mission. In the NCAA’s 2025 Academic Success Rate report, the Trojans posted a 94 percent ASR, ranking No. 12 among 311 Division II institutions, while earning the NCAA Presidents’ Award for Academic Excellence for the seventh consecutive year. As Elliott concludes his tenure, Trevecca notes that his legacy will be measured not only by conference transitions and postseason breakthroughs, but also by departmental growth—nearly doubling to about 400 student-athletes—while staying centered on developing Christian scholars and athletes.

Pavan was named the 2025-26 Mid-South Conference Athletic Director of the Year, marking the fourth time he has earned the honor. He previously received the award in 2017-18, 2019-20 and 2022-23. The conference said the award recognizes outstanding leadership and commitment to advancing intercollegiate athletics within the Mid-South Conference. Pavan expressed gratitude for being selected by fellow athletics directors. “I am so humbled and honored to be voted by the other Mid-South Conference athletics directors for this award,” Pavan said. “We have the best conference in the NAIA and all of the athletics directors work hard for the betterment of the conference. I am so blessed to work at Cumberland University with our great coaches, athletic staff and our President, Dr. Paul Stumb.” Under Pavan’s leadership, the Phoenix continued a tradition of excellence during the 2025-26 year. Cumberland captured four Mid-South Conference regular-season championships and two MSC Tournament titles, finishing third in the Presidents’ Cup standings. The department also placed 49th nationally in the NAIA LEARFIELD Directors’ Cup, reflecting success across its 30 varsity sports. Pavan’s responsibilities extend well beyond athletics. In addition to serving as Vice President of Athletics, he serves as the university’s Vice President for Facilities and Infrastructure, overseeing day-to-day operations for numerous campus departments. He also served as chair of the Mid-South Conference Administrative Council during the 2025-26 academic year. Cumberland University President Dr. Paul Stumb praised Pavan’s leadership and character, noting his consistent work ethic and commitment to the institution’s mission and students. Pavan begins his 19th year leading Cumberland Athletics in 2026-27 and his 42nd year in collegiate athletics. During his tenure, the Phoenix have expanded by adding 12 varsity sports and have strengthened administrative leadership and athletic facilities. Pavan has guided Cumberland to 59 Mid-South Conference regular-season and tournament championships, 147 individual conference champions, two team national championships and 21 individual national titles. He has also helped foster academic success, with Cumberland student-athletes posting a departmental grade-point average above 3.0 for eight consecutive years while earning NAIA Champions of Character Five-Star Institution recognition. Earlier this summer, Pavan was recognized on the national stage after being named one of four NAIA recipients of the NACDA Athletics Director of the Year Award. He will also be inducted into his high school’s Hall of Fame in September. Cumberland also received recognition on the communications side, as Assistant Sports Information Director Harley Dixon was named the 2025-26 Mid-South Conference Assistant Sports Information Director of the Year. Dixon earned the award after an outstanding first season in his full-time role. After two years as a graduate assistant in Cumberland’s Sports Information Office, he transitioned to the assistant position for the 2025-26 academic year and quickly became a key part of the department’s communications and broadcast operations. In his first year, Dixon revamped Cumberland’s live broadcast production, improving the quality and professionalism of streams and creating a more engaging experience for Phoenix fans. He served as the primary communications contact for multiple sports, including men’s and women’s soccer, women’s basketball, softball, men’s and women’s tennis, men’s volleyball and flag football. He also handled play-by-play duties for men’s and women’s soccer and softball broadcasts and added color commentary for Phoenix basketball. Beyond game coverage, Dixon oversees updates to the athletics website, including biographies and statistics for more than 700 student-athletes, while supporting archival research. He also played a vital role in hosting the NAIA Men’s Soccer National Championship Opening Round. Kyle Allen, Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Information, said Dixon has elevated both broadcasts and the exposure of Cumberland Athletics, adding that his work ethic and creativity have made an immediate impact. Dixon previously earned national recognition in 2024 with a seventh-place finish in the NAIA-SIDA Publications Contest for his men’s soccer season preview. A native of South Portsmouth, Kentucky, he graduated from Shawnee State University in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in sport management and earned his master’s degree in sports management from Cumberland in May 2025 before joining the athletics communications staff full-time. The Mid-South Conference Assistant Sports Information Director of the Year award is voted on by sports information directors and recognizes excellence in athletic communications, media relations and service to both an institution and the conference.