NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The frustration has been building for Tennessee State. Week after week, the Tigers have shown flashes of promise — a big play here, a tough defensive stand there — but the wins have eluded them. Heading into Saturday's matchup at UT Martin, TSU is still searching for its first Ohio Valley Conference-Big South victory of the season and a way to turn effort into results.

Despite a 2-7 overall record and five straight conference losses, head coach Reggie Barlow said his team's fight has never wavered.

"After watching the film from last week, I was proud of the way our guys fought and stayed in it," Barlow said. "Their effort and energy were good. Obviously, it wasn't the outcome we wanted, but we're seeing improvement. Guys are getting better, and we're grateful that they're still in the fight."

The Tigers had reason for early optimism in last week's 35-13 loss to Lindenwood at Nissan Stadium. On the second play from scrimmage, freshman wide receiver Devaughn Slaughter broke loose on a play-action pass and raced nearly 80 yards for a touchdown — his third score of the season.

It was another sign of progress for a young player emerging as one of TSU's top offensive threats.

"Coach Triano Morgan did a good job dialing that up," Barlow said. "It's a little shoot route we run off play action, and once Slaughter made one guy miss, it was all about his speed. For a true freshman to come in, compete, and make the big plays he's made has been awesome."

Slaughter has become a go-to option for quarterback Byron McNair, leading the team in receptions (33), receiving yards (397), and touchdowns (3). That connection has helped spark an offense still finding its rhythm in the second half of the season.

In the backfield, redshirt freshman Zack Simmons-Brown has stepped into a larger role with consistency. He rushed for 53 yards against Lindenwood and leads the team with 367 yards on the year, averaging 4.9 yards per carry.

"Zack's a patient runner with great feet," Barlow said. "For a guy his stature, he still runs the ball with power. He's been a solid addition for us and continues to grow each week."

But while the Tigers' offense has made strides, the defense is still searching for consistency. Tennessee State struggled to contain Lindenwood's power run game, giving up four rushing touchdowns. Barlow said tackling and gap control have been a major point of emphasis heading into UT Martin week.

The Skyhawks (6-3, 3-1) present another physical challenge. Quarterback Jase Bauer has been one of the league's most efficient players, completing more than 72% of his passes for 1,548 yards and eight touchdowns while also leading the team with 349 rushing yards and seven scores.

"UT Martin is playing really well," Barlow said. "Their quarterback is completing over 70 percent of his passes, and they've got a strong running game. Defensively, they've got a few guys who really get after it — especially Keyshawn Johnson, who's making a lot of plays and getting sacks."

UT Martin's defense, anchored by Johnson's 13.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks, has been a force in the trenches, holding opponents to under 20 points in three of its last four games.

For Tennessee State, Saturday represents more than just another conference matchup. It's a chance to prove that the work behind the scenes — the film sessions, weight-room hours, and quiet belief in progress — can translate to the scoreboard.

"This is what college football is about," Barlow said. "It's about competing, getting better every week, and embracing the challenge. That's what Tennessee State football stands for, and we're excited to go down there and show that fight."

The Tigers will look to snap their five-game OVC-Big South losing streak and earn their first win at UT Martin since 2013 when they visit Hardy Graham Stadium on Saturday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.