NASHVILLE — Tennessee State dropped its first game of the season on Saturday, falling 59-3 to defending FCS national champion North Dakota State at Nissan Stadium.
The Tigers (1-1) found bright spots on both sides of the ball despite the tough result.
Running back Kendric Rhymes led the ground game with 43 rushing yards, while Zack Simmons-Brown added 32 yards on eight carries, averaging 4.0 yards per attempt. In the passing game, Tyson Edwards hauled in TSU's longest reception of the day on a 16-yard grab.
On defense, Byron Davis stood out with four tackles and a second-half interception, marking the Tigers' first pick of the season. Lathun Snipes and Sammy Taylor were also active in the defensive effort, helping TSU limit the Bison to just 191 rushing yards — well below their season average.
Tennessee State broke through late, getting on the board in the fourth quarter with a field goal to cap a drive that showed the offense's resilience.
Game Notes
• Tennessee State's defense forced one turnover and held North Dakota State to just 3-of-9 on third down conversions.
• Davis' interception was his first of the year.
• Rhymes and Simmons-Brown combined for 75 of TSU's 99 rushing yards.
• The Tigers return to action next week in the Legacy Series, hosting Alabama A&M at Nissan Stadium. Kickoff is set for 3:30 p.m.
