Tennessee State University’s new head football coach, Reggie Barlow, didn’t mince words about the Tigers eighth-place projection in the league’s preseason poll.
“That preseason poll is cute,” Barlow remarked in response to the Tigers’ predicted standing during OVC-Big South Media Day. “But our players and coaches are laser-focused on building something special here at Tennessee State. We’re ready, and the only rankings that matter will come when the season plays out on the field.”
Barlow, a seasoned coach with a proven track record at multiple collegiate levels and a stint in the professional ranks, spoke of his pride in joining a university steeped in tradition and his gratitude to President Glenda Glover, Athletic Director Dr. Mikki Allen, and the TSU community for entrusting him with the program’s future. He finished the thought by crediting the administration’s support as a driving factor in the Tigers’ ambitious offseason overhaul.
A New Era Following Eddie George
The coaching transition follows the departure of former coach Eddie George, who moved on to Bowling Green.
“Eddie and I go way back, both drafted into the NFL in 1996. He’s assured me that if I need anything during the transition, he’s just a call away,” Barlow said. “I’m thankful for everything he accomplished here—he’s left a solid foundation.”
Barlow highlighted one of his immediate challenges upon taking the helm: retooling the Tigers’ roster amid college football’s transfer portal era.
With significant roster attrition, he and his newly assembled staff hit the ground running — convincing key returners to stay, recruiting nearly 25 transfers, and emphasizing internal competition. TSU will retain five starters on offense and six on defense from last year’s squad, but Barlow stressed that every player starts with a “clean slate.”
“It’s a new beginning for everyone,” Barlow asserted. “We’ll let the play in camp determine who earns a starting job—no one’s position is set in stone.”
Drawing on his experience as a program builder, Barlow detailed his approach to creating a winning culture: “It starts with mindset, then moves to skill set, and finally, scheme. If a player’s mentality isn’t right, the rest doesn’t matter. We’re focused on bringing in good people, molding good coaches and players, and letting the process play out.”
Tennessee State opens its 2025 season on August 30 against North Carolina A&T, aiming to defy expectations and climb the conference ladder. Barlow dismissed preseason skepticism with characteristic resolve.
Coach Barlow set the tone at OVC Big South Media Day! pic.twitter.com/QslJmRxdHA
— Tennessee State Football (@TSUTigersFB) July 17, 2025
“This team will be ready. We’re eager to show what TSU football is really about,” he said, signaling a new era—and possibly a new order—in the OVC/Big South.