In 1967, John Merritt's team achieved a national defensive record for allowing opponents a paltry average of 2.15 yards per carry, and a year later he was Coach of the Year. By 1979 he had a record of 130-25-5. On August 31, TSU plays in the classic named in his honor. 🏈 8.31.19 #BigBlueRising #KnowYourHistory #Legendary