The Governors of Austin Peay State University have locked in a marquee opening‑week showdown for the 2031 college football season, scheduling a visit to Neyland Stadium on August 31 to face the Tennessee Volunteers.
A Milestone Matchup
This will be only the third time the two programs have met since 2013, a rarity that adds a layer of excitement for both fan bases and the players who will step onto the historic field.
The game is more than a scheduling curiosity; it represents a clear statement of intent from the Governors, who have been steadily building a program capable of challenging an SEC opponent on its own turf.
Just a few years ago, the team celebrated its first FBS victory in 38 years with a 34‑14 win over Middle Tennessee, a milestone that has fueled confidence across the department.
Looking ahead, the nonconference slate through 2030 includes trips to Auburn in 2027, a home matchup with Samford in 2028, and a visit to Marshall in 2030, while a September 5, 2025 game at Vanderbilt will test the Governors against another SEC foe.
Jordan Harmon, the university’s Director of Athletics, emphasized that the agreement to host the contest in Tennessee was driven by a desire to give student‑athletes, coaches and fans an unforgettable experience that could accelerate the program’s trajectory.
The upcoming contest promises to be a defining moment for Austin Peay, blending tradition with ambition and offering a glimpse of what the future may hold for a program on the rise.