When Tennessee State redshirt freshman tight end Connor Ruth hauled in a six-yard touchdown pass from Byron McNair just before halftime of the Tigers' homecoming win over Howard, the crowd inside Nissan Stadium erupted. For Ruth, it wasn't just his first collegiate touchdown — it was a moment that reflected years of hard work, patience, and faith.

"First, I just want to give glory to God," Ruth said. "He's given me the ability to play this game and be here at TSU. Getting to play in front of my parents and score my first touchdown — that was a blessing."

The 6-foot-3, 230-pound Knoxville native stretched out near the back of the end zone, pulling in the fingertip grab as teammates rushed to celebrate. The photo of the play, featured in The Tennessean, quickly became one of the highlights of TSU's homecoming weekend — a moment that drew praise from TSU Big Blue Sports Network radio and ESPN analyst Dean Cokinos, who briefly coached Ruth at Knoxville Catholic High School.

"That was a receiver's play — the high point, the fingertip catch," Cokinos said. "Not many guys that size can make that play. He's the kind of player who makes your team better in every way — on the field and in the locker room."

Cokinos, a former Arena Football League head coach and OVC assistant, said Ruth's combination of intelligence, size, and versatility stood out even in high school. "He's athletic, smart — a 4.0-plus student — and he can line up anywhere: tight end, fullback, or split out like a big receiver. He plays like a veteran because mentally, he's as sharp as they come."

Head coach Reggie Barlow also praised Ruth's poise on the play. "Connor's patience on that route, getting his first college touchdown in that moment, was special," Barlow said.

Those traits — size, intelligence, and versatility — are evident on the field. Stepping into the starting role after Jason Hoath went down with an injury, Ruth has recorded four catches for 32 yards and his first touchdown in five games this season, proving to be a reliable and composed presence in the Tigers' offense.

Coming out of Knoxville Catholic, Ruth had several Ivy League programs recruiting him, including Harvard, Yale, and Princeton. He was known as much for his academic drive as for his athletic ability. But when he visited Tennessee State during his junior year, he felt an immediate connection.

"They were the most consistent team recruiting me," Ruth said. "Other schools promised things, but TSU showed up. Once I came on my official visit, I knew this was the place God was calling me to be."

Ruth joined the Tigers in the summer of 2024 and spent his first year learning behind a veteran tight end group that helped the program capture an OVC-Big South conference championship. That experience, he said, prepared him to take on a bigger role this season.

"Coming into an experienced tight end room last year taught me a lot," Ruth said. "I learned from the older guys and saw what it takes to win. This year, I've tried to carry those values into this new team."

Alongside adapting to the Tigers' new leadership under Coach Barlow, Ruth draws strength and perspective from his family. The son of Rodney and Michelle Ruth, he grew up in Knoxville surrounded by strong family ties and sports tradition. His father played receiver at the Tennessee in the early 1990s, and his mother was a member of the school's dance team.

"My parents raised me the right way — keep your grades up, do things the right way, and treat people well," Ruth said. "My dad's my hero. He's always been there for me, but he's also let me find my own way. That's meant a lot."

Ruth's three siblings have all been involved in athletics, and their influence shaped his competitive mindset. His older brother ran track at Tennessee, his sister ran at UT-Chattanooga, and his younger brother is currently a standout high school track athlete.

"Growing up with them taught me to compete and never quit," Ruth said. "I wouldn't be playing here today if it wasn't for them."

Off the field, Ruth remains grounded. A business major, he participates in weekly Bible studies, spends time with teammates, and pursues a creative side through art — a talent that surprises many of his teammates.

"I like to draw," Ruth said. "In high school, I started customizing shoes and cleats for people. It turned into a little side business. I don't have as much time for it now, but whenever I can, I still draw so I don't lose my skill."

That calm, focused mindset on game day reflects the same discipline Ruth hopes to carry into life after football. Before games, while most players turn to hip-hop or rock to get hyped, he listens to gospel music. "It helps calm me down," he said. "I just focus on glorifying God and doing my job. Everything else takes care of itself."

Looking ahead, Ruth hopes to combine his business education and faith into a career that allows him to impact others. "Owning a business or getting into ministry — maybe both," he said. "Whatever I do, I want to make an impact."

For now, Ruth's focus remains on helping Tennessee State continue its progress on the field. His story — rooted in family, faith, and perseverance — reflects exactly the kind of player Coach Barlow wants representing the Tigers.

"Connor's the kind of kid every coach wants," Cokinos said. "He's humble, disciplined, and driven. You can build a program around players like him."