In more FCS realignment, Tennessee Tech Athletics is heading to the Southern Conference in 2026.
HERO Sports first reported the move earlier today, which became official this afternoon.
The Golden Eagles depart the OVC-Big South Football Association and the OVC.
The SoCon’s Council of Presidents voted unanimously to accept Tennessee Tech. It marks the league’s first change in full membership since adding ETSU, Mercer, and VMI in 2014.
“Tennessee Tech’s addition reaffirms that ‘It’s All Here’ in the Southern Conference — the premier FCS athletics experience in the South,” said Southern Conference Commissioner Dr. Michael Cross. “Tech strengthens our geographic footprint, reinforces our Southern identity, and enters at a time of tremendous regional growth. This move builds rivalries, solves scheduling challenges, maximizes budgets, and enhances the student-athlete experience with competitive play and reasonable travel. Tech’s leadership shares the SoCon’s collaborative, forward-thinking vision, and their ongoing facility investments show a commitment to thriving in a changing athletics landscape. With Tennessee Tech, the SoCon delivers on its promise: championship-level FCS competition, academic excellence, and an unmatched student-athlete experience.
“The University’s strong commitment to academic excellence also complements the Southern Conference. As a Carnegie R2 research institution focused on preparing graduates for successful careers, Tech is an ideal fit for a league that values the complete student-athlete experience.”
The SoCon will grow to 11 overall members and 10 football members as TN Tech joins Chattanooga, ETSU, Furman, Mercer, Samford, The Citadel, VMI, Western Carolina, and Wofford. UNC Greensboro does not sponsor football.
The OVC-Big South Football Association will drop to eight members — six from the OVC and two from the Big South. Eastern Illinois, Lindenwood, SEMO, Tennessee State, UT Martin, and Western Illinois are in the OVC, while Charleston Southern and Gardner-Webb are the Big South members.
Tennessee Tech is a rising program, finishing 7-5 last year with a 6-2 mark in conference play. The team is ranked No. 21 in the 2025 FCS preseason media poll. The Golden Eagles landed several impact FCS transfers this offseason and are investing in facilities and stadium upgrades.
“Geographically, the states with SoCon teams fit the footprint of our students and alumni, so our move makes sense in those terms,” said Tennessee Tech President Dr. Phil Oldham. “Beyond that, our students and fans will have a chance to be a part of new rivalries and new traditions that can create lifetime memories.
“College athletics is experiencing unprecedented change, and Tennessee Tech is committed to navigating those changes by putting our student-athletes and coaches in the best position to win and become successful leaders. Being accepted by the SoCon shows they recognized this commitment and the history of excellence at Tennessee Tech. We are honored to join the Southern Conference and compete for championships.”
