Lindenwood 35, Tennessee State 13: Hall, Rhodes star

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – Lindenwood University made a definitive statement in its inaugural NCAA home football game, dominating Tennessee State University with a 35-13 victory at the Edward Jones Dome on Saturday, September 24, 2011. The decisive win, marking the season opener for both teams, showcased Lindenwood’s readiness for the NCAA Division II stage and sent a strong message to the collegiate football world.

The Lions’ offense was spearheaded by the potent combination of running back Jared Rhodes and quarterback Steve Hall, who together accounted for four touchdowns. Rhodes was a force on the ground, churning out 116 yards on 19 carries and finding the end zone twice with a 1-yard plunge and a 10-yard scamper. Hall, demonstrating precision and poise in the pocket, completed 16 of 25 passes for 198 yards and threw two touchdown passes. He connected with Spencer Redd for a 33-yard score and later found Jeff Caldwell for a 24-yard touchdown pass.

Lindenwood established an early lead, going up 7-0 after the first quarter, and maintained control with a comfortable 21-13 advantage heading into halftime. While Tennessee State’s quarterback Draylen Ellis managed to connect with Karate Brenson for a 12-yard touchdown and finished with 209 passing yards, the Tigers struggled to string together consistent drives against a resolute Lindenwood defense.

The Lions solidified their commanding lead in the fourth quarter when defensive back Payton Price intercepted a Tennessee State pass and returned it 62 yards for a touchdown, effectively putting the game out of reach and igniting the crowd at the Edward Jones Dome.

This contest was particularly significant for Lindenwood as it marked their first home game as a provisional member of NCAA Division II, having transitioned from the NAIA. The decision to move to the NCAA represented a major step for the university’s athletics program, aiming for a higher level of competition and national recognition. Facing Tennessee State, a long-standing program from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) and a member of the Ohio Valley Conference (OVC), offered an early test of Lindenwood’s capabilities against an established NCAA opponent.

Playing at the Edward Jones Dome, the then-home of the NFL’s St. Louis Rams, added a grand stage to Lindenwood’s historic occasion, providing a professional venue for their entry into NCAA competition. The Lions, under Head Coach Patrick Ross, demonstrated a balanced attack and a tenacious defense that proved too much for the visiting Tigers, coached by Rod Reed.

The victory not only celebrated a successful debut in their new NCAA home but also set a positive tone for Lindenwood’s 2011 season as they navigated their first year in the Division II provisional period.

For more information on Lindenwood University Athletics, visit https://www.lindenwoodlions.com/.
For more on Tennessee State University Athletics, visit https://www.tsutigers.com/.
Information about the NCAA Division II transition can be found at https://www.ncaa.com/d2.