Jake Bolden 
A look at the MTSU home field from the endzone seats.
Behind Enemy Lines: Tennessee Tech
As the 2024 football season kicks off, anticipation is building around MTSU and the same
parallel is true for Tennessee Tech’s new chapter under head coach Coach Wilder. Known for
his successful stint at Old Dominion, Coach Wilder has infused a fresh energy into the Golden
Eagles’ program. His arrival has not only brought a new coaching style but also a rejuvenated
sense of optimism among the team and fans alike.
Coach Wilder’s influence has been palpable from the start. Observers have noted a significant
shift in the team’s dynamic, characterized by rigorous 6:00 AM workouts and a focus on
“stacking days”—a phrase Wilder uses to emphasize the importance of daily improvement. His
approach to building a winning culture, combined with his previous success, has created a buzz
around Cookeville. Wilder understands the FCS playoff system, which his ODU Monarchs
participated in 2011 and ‘12 prior to their transition to FBS in 2013.
Quarterback Battle
A major storyline for Tennessee Tech this season is the quarterback battle between Jordan
Potts and Dylan Liable. Potts, who gained valuable experience starting the final 6 games last
season, offers mobility and playmaking ability. Liable, a transfer from Missouri and a former
National Champion Runner-Up at Junior College powerhouse Hutchinson CC, brings a strong
arm and impressive physicality to the table. The competition remains open, with both
quarterbacks showing promising performances during fall camp. The decision on who will start
this Saturday will be decided with this week’s depth chart that has not been released as of
Tuesday morning.
Transfer Portal Filled Receiver Room
The Golden Eagles’ offensive outlook is bolstered by several key transfers. Jordan Yates,
named captain despite first year in Cookeville, had limited playing time at Sam Houston State.
The 6th-year Graduate student was originally recruited as a Quarterback to Georgia Tech
before transferring to Sam Houston State to play Receiver in. He’ll provide leadership and depth
to a room of new faces. Transfers DJ Lincolns and Jay Parker bring additional experience and
talent to the receiving corps. Lincolns transfers from New Hampshire, the previous stop for new
offensive coordinator Brian Scott. Parker, who has been around college football since 2018, is
expected to make significant contributions particularly on special teams where he had over 500
return yards at Western Illinois in 2023.
Experienced Defense Returns
On the defensive side, Tennessee Tech boasts a formidable front seven. Players like Aaron
Swafford and Daniel Rickert anchor a defensive line that was among the best in the FCS last
season. Their performance, coupled with the presence of seasoned linebacker Hudson Tucker
and All-American safety Tim Coutras, sets a high standard for the defense.
Coutras, named to a few FCS preseason All-American teams, is known for his ball-hawking
skills and hard-hitting style. After transferring from Liberty in 2023, the Nolensville-native was
3rd in total tackles at 55, and lead the Golden Eagles with four interceptions.
How Can The Golden Eagles Win?
As the Golden Eagles prepare for their season opener against MTSU, the stakes are high. The
game represents a storied past dating back to 1917, this is only the second time since 1998.
The Blue Raiders lead the series 36-31-7 all-time and haven’t lost in Murfreesboro since 1983.
However, the excitement surrounding the matchup is palpable, fueled by the historical, Harvey
Trophy rivalry between the two schools. For Tennessee Tech to pull off an upset, they will need
to play a flawless game, minimizing mistakes and capitalizing on every opportunity. Defensive
pressure to limit the run, along with big-play, quick-strike offense, will be crucial in making a
competitive game out of this encounter.
Betting Odds
The opening line on FanDuel for Saturday’s matchup has the Blue Raiders at -23.5 (FanDuel).
Surprisingly low from where I thought it would be considering the last time these teams got
together in 2006, Rick Stockstill’s first season, they steamrolled the Golden Eagles 44-0. I
wouldn’t be surprised if the same happened in Derek Mason’s return to head coaching and
proved his team belongs in conference contender conversations.
A 52.5 over/under (FanDuel) is a tough line. I’d advise staying away from FCS/FBS lines in
general as these games have a tendency to go two ways – a one-sided blowout or an ugly,
defensive battle. In the event of a blow out, can MTSU get to 50-plus points before they call off
the dogs? If Tech plays the flawless game they need to, can both offenses get into the low 20’s?
Either would imply that both options lead to a higher chance of hitting the under 52.5 points.
Gamble responsibly, as they say.
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