Mocs Kick Off 2026 Season with Fan Fest
The Chattanooga Mocs wrapped up their preseason activities with a fan‑focused festival at Finley Stadium, where gates opened at 6:30 p.m. The event, presented by FirstBank, celebrated the 2026 roster and featured a tailgate designed for freshmen moving into dorms by August 20.
A highlight of the festival was the official launch of Mocs Gold Lager, brewed by Riverside Collective. The new brew will hit shelves on September 1, giving fans a first taste of the brand ahead of the season.
The Mocs open the regular season on September 7 against West Georgia, marking the first meeting between the two programs on the football field. The matchup promises a fresh rivalry and sets the tone for what coaches expect to be a competitive year.
Returning to the gridiron, the team brings back 13 starters and a total of 25 players from the 2025 squad. Among them, DB Jaden Nelson is making a much‑anticipated comeback after an injury that limited his freshman season in 2024, while DB Keyshawn Jackson, who transferred from East Carolina, is slated to start at cornerback.
The schedule also includes a United Athletic Conference slate, with a September 12 showdown against Eastern Kentucky on the horizon. Both programs are looking to build momentum early in the season.
A notable policy change for 2027 is the introduction of a 5‑for‑5 eligibility rule, which will allow up to ten players to extend their collegiate eligibility for two additional seasons, providing greater flexibility for student‑athletes.
Fans interested in attending games or accessing additional event options can purchase season tickets and explore basketball and arena event packages through GoMocs.com/tickets. The site also links to Mocs Club membership information and details on NIL opportunities for student‑athletes.