Tennessee State had a commanding 41-21 victory over Mississippi Valley State in their season opener on Saturday. Draylen Ellis led the way by throwing for three touchdowns, marking Tennessee State’s first opening-day win since August 31, 2019, when they also defeated Mississippi Valley State.
In the opening quarter, Ellis connected with Jalal Dean for a 55-yard touchdown on the game’s first drive. Shortly after, he threw a 1-yard touchdown pass to Jordan Gant. Micah Gray further extended Tennessee State’s lead with a 54-yard fumble return for a touchdown. By halftime, Tennessee State was comfortably ahead 31-0 after a 31-yard touchdown pass from Ellis to Karate Brenson.
Mississippi Valley State managed to score with Jaydyn Sisk throwing a 27-yard touchdown pass to Kerrick Ross in the second half. However, Tennessee State responded promptly with Jalen Rouse running for a 20-yard touchdown following a 55-yard reception from Ellis to Brenson. Sisk threw for 110 yards and a touchdown, while Ruben Lee also threw a touchdown for Mississippi Valley State.
Tennessee State now leads the series against Mississippi Valley State 6-3, with most of the games played in Tennessee. The only game held outside of Tennessee occurred in 1988 at the Circle City Classic in Indianapolis.
