Tennessee State University (TSU), led by head coach Eddie George, is gearing up for a massive challenge as they prepare to face North Dakota State University (NDSU), the second-ranked FCS team in the country. Coming off a win against Mississippi Valley State, TSU is confident, but George knows what’s ahead.
“Clearly, we have a huge challenge ahead of us,” George remarked, acknowledging the toughness of their upcoming opponent. “It’s going to be a very physical game.”
For TSU, a proud HBCU, this matchup is more than just a game—it’s a chance to test their progress.
“We’re going up against one of the top brands in college football,” George said, emphasizing NDSU’s reputation as a powerhouse. “They have the pedigree of a champion. They don’t quit. They don’t blink at adversity.”
Veteran quarterback Draylen Ellis will be key for TSU. George praised his leadership and performance in the season opener. He threw for better than 350 yards and three scores in the win.
“Draylen had a really solid fall camp… kept them upright, didn’t get touched, no quarterback sacks,” George said.
That kind of protection will be crucial against the relentless NDSU defense, which George described as “the heart and soul of their team.”
North Dakota State is coming off an opening week in which it gave Deion Sanders and Co. all it could handle in a close loss against Colorado on Thursday.
Tennessee State, one of the prominent HBCU programs, continues to build its identity under George’s leadership, he views this game as a measuring stick.
“It’s going to be a great challenge for us,” he said, knowing the outcome will reflect the progress of the Tennessee State University program.
