Welcome to the John A. Merritt Classic! This year’s Classic will continue to build upon the remarkable leadership created and facilitated from inception. It also preserves our meaningful traditions while adding new and exciting elements targeting a cross section of fans, students, and alumni.

We are thankful for our presenting sponsor, the Tennessee Titans-One Community Foundation, a newly cemented partnership that began with the first John A. Merritt Classic in 1999. With their enhanced capabilities, we intend to take the John A. Merritt Classic to new heights with more interactive experiences and fan engagement opportunities for all.

Year after year, we work to deliver the same level of excellence and Tiger Pride that “Big John” delivered for years as head coach. Your enthusiasm and support for the Classic are essential to propel us into the next quarter century of Classic fun – all for the singular cause of increasing the educational opportunities for students attending Tennessee State University. We have planned and executed an exciting schedule of events. From student activities to tailgating, community activities, special events, parties, and the Big Game at Nissan Stadium – we got you covered.

Join us this Labor Day Weekend as we kick off an HBCU Classic for the books! Saturday, August 31, 2024, we take on Mississippi Valley State at 5 p.m. We’re excited to expand the Classic’s reach by launching community and partnerships and corporate activations, making the John A. Merritt Classic one of the best in the nation!

We can’t wait to see all of you and host you again here in Roar City!

Get ready because “It’s Showtime!”