Draylen Ellis and Tennessee State Brace for North Dakota State Clash After Dominant Season Opener
Nashville, TN – Tennessee State quarterback Draylen Ellis made quite the statement to open the 2024 season. In a commanding 41-21 victory over Mississippi Valley State, Ellis showed off his arm, completing 21 of 33 passes for 356 yards, 3 touchdowns, and only 1 interception. His standout performance earned him Big South-OVC Special Offensive Player of the Week honors, solidifying his place as a key player to watch this season.
While Mississippi Valley State isn’t known as an FCS powerhouse, they’re a team that prides itself on a scrappy, never-quit defense. For Tennessee State, it was a solid start, but everyone knows the real test comes in Week 2.
The Tigers will head to Fargo to take on North Dakota State, the perennial giants of FCS football. Known for their dominance, NDSU has been the boogeyman for FCS teams for years. Ellis and Tennessee State will need to bring their best game if they hope to pull off an upset on the road.
Senior wide receiver Jalal Dean was a key piece in Week 1, hauling in 9 catches for 144 yards and a touchdown. His connection with Ellis will need to be just as strong, if not stronger, against North Dakota State’s defense. Tennessee State will need all hands on deck to leave Fargo with a win, and this is the first real test of their 2024 campaign.
