About The Classic
The Coach
John Ayers Merritt
1926-1983
Few figures have had a greater impact on HBCU football than Coach John Ayers Merritt.
A visionary leader and one of the most accomplished coaches in college football history, Merritt built championship programs at both Jackson State University and Tennessee State University, leaving an enduring mark on generations of student-athletes, coaches, and fans.
During his 21 seasons at Tennessee State (1963–1983), Merritt transformed the Tigers into a national powerhouse, leading the program to four national championships and compiling an extraordinary record of 172 victories, 33 losses, and one tie.
Known for his innovative offensive philosophy, demanding standards, and unwavering commitment to excellence, Merritt’s influence extended far beyond the football field. His coaching tree produced future head coaches, athletic directors, and leaders who helped shape the future of collegiate athletics.
In 1980, Merritt’s impact was recognized nationally when President Jimmy Carter personally called to congratulate him on his 200th career victory—a testament to the respect he earned throughout the sport.
Just as memorable as his success on the sidelines was the ever-present cigar that became one of his trademarks. For many who watched him coach, the sight of Coach Merritt pacing the sideline with a cigar in hand became a symbol of confidence, determination, and Tiger pride.
Today, the John A. Merritt Classic proudly honors a man whose legacy continues to inspire excellence, leadership, and championship achievement. More than four decades after his final season, Coach Merritt’s influence remains woven into the fabric of Tennessee State University, Jackson State University, and college football itself.
JOHN A. MERRITT CLASSIC 2026
FIRSTBANK STADIUM TO HOST 2026 JOHN A. MERRITT CLASSIC
NASHVILLE — Tennessee State and Jackson State will renew one of HBCU football’s most storied rivalries at Vanderbilt University’s FirstBank Stadium when the teams meet in the 2026 John A. Merritt Classic, presented by the Tennessee Titans and ONE Community, on Saturday, Aug. 29, at 7:30 p.m. CT.
Tennessee State 2026 single-game tickets, including the John A. Merritt Classic, will go on sale Monday, June 15, at 9 a.m. CT.
The game will be played at FirstBank Stadium due to NFL scheduling, which has the Tennessee Titans hosting the Chicago Bears in their preseason finale at Nissan Stadium that weekend. Vanderbilt University stepped forward to host the event, ensuring the John A. Merritt Classic could remain in Nashville. The Tennessee Titans will continue their longstanding support of the game as presenting sponsor alongside ONE Community.
“We are excited to bring the John A. Merritt Classic to FirstBank Stadium and honor Coach John Merritt’s legacy at a venue where he enjoyed tremendous success,” said TSU Director of Athletics Dr. Mikki Allen. “We appreciate the partnership of Vanderbilt University and the Tennessee Titans in helping make this special event possible for our student-athletes, alumni and fans.”
The move returns Tennessee State to the venue where legendary coach John Merritt enjoyed tremendous success during one of the most dominant eras in program history.
“We are honored to partner with Tennessee State University to host the 2026 John A. Merritt Classic at FirstBank Stadium,” Vanderbilt Vice Chancellor for University Affairs and Athletic Director Candice Lee said. “Coach Merritt led many memorable victories at Dudley Field, making it especially meaningful to welcome this game and TSU back to campus. We are proud to support an event that celebrates Coach Merritt’s legacy and the rich tradition of HBCU football, and we look forward to welcoming Tennessee State and Jackson State fans for what promises to be a special evening.”
Merritt posted a 14-4-1 record at Vanderbilt’s Dudley Field, including a 2-1 mark against Jackson State. His first game at the facility came on Oct. 23, 1965, when Tennessee State defeated Florida A&M, 50-8. Among the most memorable victories was a 20-3 triumph over top-ranked Florida A&M on Oct. 20, 1979.
Tennessee State has compiled a 23-15-1 record at Vanderbilt when playing opponents other than the Commodores. Under Merritt, the Tigers earned victories against Florida A&M, Middle Tennessee State, Grambling State, Southern and Nicholls State at the historic venue.
Tennessee State and Jackson State met three times at Dudley Field during Merritt’s tenure, with the Tigers posting a 2-1 record. Following a 35-24 setback in 1978, Tennessee State responded with consecutive shutout victories, defeating Jackson State 20-0 in 1980 and 21-0 in 1982.
The game also carries added significance given Merritt’s ties to both institutions. Before becoming the winningest coach in Tennessee State history, Merritt spent 11 seasons as head coach at Jackson State, where he posted a 63-37-5 record and led the Tigers to an Orange Blossom Classic victory during his final season in 1962.
The matchup renews a rivalry that has largely been played in Memphis in recent years. Each of the last 19 meetings between Tennessee State and Jackson State has been contested as part of the Southern Heritage Classic.
The Tigers hold a 30-23-2 advantage in the all-time series. The most recent meeting came in 2022, when Jackson State earned a 16-3 victory. The last matchup played in Nashville was Nov. 17, 2001, when Tennessee State defeated Jackson State, 64-33.
The 2026 contest will mark Tennessee State’s first game at Vanderbilt as the designated home team since Sept. 21, 1996, when the Tigers hosted Florida A&M.
Single-game parking will be available in Vanderbilt University’s 25th Avenue Garage through advance purchase and the West Garage on game day. Tailgating will not be permitted inside parking garages.
Additional details regarding tailgating, premium hospitality experiences and game-week festivities will be announced at a later date.
The Game
Two Tiger traditions. One legendary legacy.
On August 29, Vanderbilt University’s First Bank Stadium becomes the stage for a battle between two proud Tiger programs, two passionate fan bases, and two institutions forever linked by one legendary coach.
The Rivalry Returns.
The John A. Merritt Classic is more than a football game—it is a celebration of excellence, tradition, and the enduring legacy of one of the greatest coaches in college football history.
Established in 1999, the Classic honors the legendary John Ayers Merritt, whose name remains synonymous with championship football, transformational leadership, and Tennessee State University pride. During his remarkable 21-year tenure as head coach of the TSU Tigers, Merritt built one of the most dominant programs in the nation, leading TSU to four national championships among Historically Black Colleges and Universities and compiling an extraordinary career record of 172-33-1.
His impact extended far beyond the scoreboard. Under his leadership, Tennessee State became a pipeline to professional football, producing NFL legends such as Richard Dent, Joe Gilliam, Ed “Too Tall” Jones, Claude Humphrey, and countless others who carried the TSU legacy to the highest levels of the game.
Today, the John A. Merritt Classic continues that legacy by bringing together alumni, fans, students, and supporters from across the country for a weekend that celebrates the rich tradition of HBCU football and culture. As one of the few NCAA Division I FCS football classics hosted by a single institution, the event serves as a signature showcase for Tennessee State University while generating critical scholarship support and resources for future generations of students.
From electrifying football and spirited bands to community engagement, alumni reunions, and unforgettable experiences, the John A. Merritt Classic is where history, pride, and tradition come together.
Join us as we honor a legend, celebrate a legacy, and create new memories in one of college football’s most storied traditions.