The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders represent a strong tradition in NCAA athletics with passionate fans and competitive teams. From the growth of Blue Raiders football to the pride shown through the Blue Raiders mascot, the program has built a lasting identity. The Blue Raiders continue to thrive, balancing athletic achievement with school spirit across all sports.
College Sports Established
1911
Location
Murfreesboro, Tennessee
College Name
Middle Tennessee State University
Collegiate History
1973 - Present / NCAA Division 1
1922 - 1973 / University Division of the NCAA
Conference History
2013 - Present / Conference USA
2001 - 2012 / Sun Belt Conference
1999 - 2000 / Independent
1952 - 1998 / Ohio Valley Conference
1911 - 1951 / Independent
Nickname
Blue Raiders - The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders are one of the most beloved teams in college sports, and their nickname has a long history that dates back to the 1920s. The team was originally known as the Normalites, after the nearby Middle Tennessee State Normal School (now MTSU). But when football coach Lester Barnard arrived at MTSU in 1925, he wanted something more exciting than “Normalites” for his team. He settled on “Blue Raiders” because it had a better ring and because blue is associated with bravery and courage.
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Origin
This decision proved an excellent choice: The Blue Raiders have become one of the most successful programs in NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision history since joining Conference USA in 2013. They've won four conference championships during this span and made three trips to bowl games—including two New Year's Six bowls!
In addition to having an excellent nickname, what makes being part of Raider Nation so unique is its passionate fan base, who show up game after the game wearing their favorite blue-and-white gear while cheering loudly for their favorite players. So if you're looking for some great college football action combined with plenty of school spirit, then join us at Floyd Stadium this fall as we cheer on our beloved Blue Raiders!
NCAA Championships
Baseball 0
Men's Basketball 0
Women's Basketball 0
Football 0
Soccer 0
- 1995
- 2001
- 2006
- 2009
- 2016
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Kelly Holcomb Football achievements
Kelly Holcomb is a former football player who played quarterback for the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders from 1992 to 1995. He is one of the most successful and decorated quarterbacks in the history of the Blue Raiders football program. Holcomb set numerous school and conference records during his time at Middle Tennessee. He finished his career as the school’s all-time ... -
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders men’s basketball team wins the Sun Belt Conference
In 2001: The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders men’s basketball team wins the Sun Belt Conference championship, earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in program history. -
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders football team wins the Sun Belt Conference championship
In 2006: The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders football team wins the Sun Belt Conference championship, earning a spot in the Motor City Bowl, which they win over Central Michigan University. -
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders women’s basketball team wins the Sun Belt Conference
In 2009: The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders women’s basketball team wins the Sun Belt Conference championship, earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the first time in program history. -
One of the biggest upsets in the history of the tournament
In 2016: The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders men’s basketball team upsets the second-seeded Michigan State Spartans in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, marking one of the biggest upsets in the history of the tournament.
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders History
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders hold a proud place in NCAA athletics with a history that spans more than a century. Their rivalry with the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers remains one of the most intense in college sports, making every matchup a highlight for fans. From Blue Raiders football achievements to notable basketball success, the program has built lasting traditions.
The Blue Raiders football program began in 1911 and quickly became a source of pride for Middle Tennessee State University. Over the years, the team captured two Sun Belt Conference Championships in 2000 and 2006 before moving into Conference USA, where they won the league title in 2018. They have also made numerous bowl appearances, with memorable wins such as the 2017 Camellia Bowl against Arkansas State.
Basketball has also been central to the legacy of the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders. Their most iconic moment came in 2016, when the Blue Raiders stunned the nation with a first-round NCAA Tournament upset of No. 2 seed Michigan State. This historic win added to a program already known for its March Madness appearances, which began with their Sweet Sixteen run in 1982.
Beyond football and basketball, the Blue Raiders excel in baseball, track and field, and other sports. The baseball program has produced multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, while the women’s basketball team has consistently been a powerhouse in Conference USA, winning several league titles and reaching the NCAA Tournament under coach Rick Insell.
The Blue Raiders mascot, “Lightning,” symbolizes the program’s energy, spirit, and dedication. This beloved figure rallies fans at every game, representing both the athletic pride and school spirit of Middle Tennessee. Students, alumni, and fans alike share a strong bond with the mascot, making it one of the most recognizable in college sports.
Blue Raiders Legacy
Over the decades, the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders have produced professional athletes who excelled beyond the university, including NBA star Bruce Bowen and NFL players like Kevin Byard. These alumni carry the school’s name with pride, showcasing the talent and development fostered at MTSU.
The legacy of the Blue Raiders football program continues to grow, with consistent bowl appearances and competitive seasons under long-time coach Rick Stockstill. The team’s resilience and ability to challenge bigger programs have made them a respected force in the NCAA.
In basketball, the Blue Raiders continue to shine, with the men’s team earning national attention and the women’s program maintaining dominance in Conference USA. These achievements highlight the depth of athletic excellence across the school’s history.
The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders remain one of the most spirited programs in college athletics, backed by passionate fans and the iconic Blue Raiders mascot. Their success across football, basketball, and other sports demonstrates both tradition and progress. With a strong foundation, the Blue Raiders are positioned to achieve even greater milestones in the years to come.
