At first glance, the Tiffin vs Carson-Newman matchup may not seem all that interesting. But in reality, it could be one of the most exciting matchups of week 0. 

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Here’s why:

Both Teams Enter The 2026 Season Under New Leadership

Zack Blair begins his first season as head coach at Tiffin, and Tyler Almond will make his head-coaching debut at Carson-Newman. Both leaders assume the role of head coach following promotions from their prior positions at their respective institutions. Blair spent his last two seasons as offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach and as recruiting coordinator. Almond spent two seasons working as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach for the Eagles.

It’s A Rare SAC vs G-MAC Matchup

It’s not often that SAC football teams face G-MAC teams. However, when C-N first-year head coach Almond saw that Tiffin needed a week 0 opponent, he knew the Eagles had to capitalize on the opportunity.

“Strategically, we were trying to kind of get out of the two NAIA games because that doesn't really help us in the playoffs with rankings.” - Head Coach Tyler Almond

The Dragons & Eagles Won 7 Games Apiece Last Season

During the 2025-26 season, Tiffin closed out the season with a 7-4 overall record, going 6-3 in G-MAC play. Carson-Newman also went 6-3 in SAC play, posting a 7-3 overall record. The Eagles were undefeated at home, including an early-season 24-7 win over #17 Lenoir-Rhyne.

Tiffin’s Ronald Blackman

Enough said. The 2024 G-MAC Offensive Player of the Year is back this season after leading the team in rushing attempts (145) and rushing yards (820) in 2025. The fifth-year running back is just five rushing yards shy of 3000, a mark he is bound to eclipse on Thursday. He currently holds the Tiffin single-season record for points (102) and rushing attempts (229) and ranks second in rushing yards (1385) and rushing yards per game (125.9). All four of these records were set during the 2024-25 season.

How To Watch D2 Football In 2026

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