Tennessee Tech Defeats The Citadel 28-13
Tennessee Tech secured a road victory at Johnson Hagood Stadium behind a strong offensive performance.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Do you feel optimistic about your local team's ability to win despite recent losing streaks?
Tennessee Tech defeated The Citadel 28-13 in a matchup at Johnson Hagood Stadium. The win moves Tennessee Tech to a 7-1 record on the season while The Citadel falls to 2-6.
Why it matters
The result highlights Tennessee Tech's consistent performance this season as they continue to build on a strong 7-1 record. For The Citadel, the loss marks their fourth consecutive home defeat this year, complicating their standing in the conference.
Tennessee Tech quarterback Jax Leatherwood threw for 240 yards and two touchdowns, while running back MJ Flowers added 124 rushing yards and two scores. The Citadel's scoring included a 78-yard fumble return by JJ Fludd and a 53-yard field goal from Evan Kiely.
The players
Jax Leatherwood
The Tennessee Tech quarterback led his team's offensive efforts with 240 passing yards and two touchdowns.
MJ Flowers
The running back for Tennessee Tech provided a key 27-yard touchdown run late in the game to finalize the score.
JJ Fludd
The Citadel player scored a defensive touchdown by returning a fumble 78 yards.
Evan Kiely
The Citadel kicker successfully converted a 53-yard field goal during the contest.
Chris Benton
A notable player for The Citadel, he made his season debut in this game after being named to the All-SoCon second team in 2025.
The details
MJ Flowers sealed the victory with a 27-yard touchdown run with 2:12 remaining in the game. Earlier, Tre Holloway contributed to the Tennessee Tech lead with a 52-yard touchdown reception.
Timeline
The game took place on October 24, 2026.
The Citadel is scheduled to play Mercer on October 31, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This game highlights the divergent paths of the two teams, with Tennessee Tech maintaining a strong 7-1 standing while The Citadel struggles with a 2-6 record. The result further emphasizes The Citadel's difficulty at home, where they remain winless in four attempts this season.
The loss extends The Citadel's winless streak at home, leaving the team with a 0-4 record at Johnson Hagood Stadium this season. Conversely, Tennessee Tech's balanced offensive output of over 360 total yards suggests a potent offensive rhythm as they move deeper into the season.
The takeaway
Tennessee Tech's ability to capitalize on offensive opportunities late in the game proved decisive in securing the road win. Fans and analysts should monitor how The Citadel adjusts its home-game strategy as they prepare for their final stretch of the season.
What happens next
The Citadel will return to the field to face Mercer on October 31, 2026.
Further reading
For more updates on local college athletic programs, visit the Football section.
Live Poll
Do you feel optimistic about your local team's ability to win despite recent losing streaks?
