NASHVILLE — Tennessee State head football coach Eddie George has been named one of 15 finalists for the 2024 Eddie Robinson Award, which honors the national coach of the year in Division I FCS football. The recognition comes in George's fourth season at the helm, a campaign marked by significant milestones for the Tigers.

Under George's leadership, Tennessee State posted a 9-3 overall record and a 6-2 mark in the Big South-OVC Football Association, earning a share of the conference title—the program's first since 1999. The Tigers also secured their first playoff berth since 2013, capping a season of resurgence and promise for the storied program.

George, a former Heisman Trophy winner and College Football Hall of Fame inductee, has steadily transformed TSU since his appointment in 2021. This season, the Tigers achieved signature wins over nationally-ranked SEMO in the regular season finale and displayed a renewed toughness on both sides of the ball. His commitment to excellence has reignited the program's competitive spirit and national relevance.

The Eddie Robinson Award, now in its 38th year, is named after the legendary Grambling State coach who set the standard for sustained success in college football. It is one of the most prestigious honors in the FCS, with past winners including Jim Tressel, Deion Sanders, Jerry Kill, and Paul Johnson.

This year's finalists represent 13 FCS conferences, highlighting the depth of talent and leadership across the division. The winner, determined by a national voting panel, will be announced on Dec. 5 and formally honored at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Banquet on Jan. 4 in Frisco, Texas.

George's nomination not only reflects his individual coaching achievements but also underscores the progress Tennessee State has made under his guidance. As the Tigers continue their postseason journey, George remains a central figure in their pursuit of national prominence.