Season Opener Preview: MTSU vs. Austin Peay

Photo courtesy of MTAthletics

This season, Sidelines MT will be preparing weekly predictions from its three members; Jonathan House, Drake Williams, and RJ Schafer.
Middle Tennessee kicks off its 2025 football season Saturday night at Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium, hosting in-state rival Austin Peay in a game that rekindles one of the Blue Raiders’ longest-standing series. After finishing 4–8 in Derek Mason’s inaugural campaign, MTSU looks to bounce back with veteran quarterback Nicholas Vattiato leading an offense supported by a more seasoned defensive unit.

Austin Peay, also coming off a 4–8 season, returns signal-caller Austin Smith but brings a younger roster and a new defensive coordinator, making this matchup an intriguing clash of experience versus youth. Historically, Middle Tennessee dominates the series with a commanding 38–12-1 record against the Governors. Betting lines reflect this trend, as the Raiders enter as double-digit favorites on their home turf.

Saturday night’s showdown promises a spirited start to the season as both teams aim to establish momentum early. For MTSU fans, the focus will be on Vattiato’s leadership and how the improved defense handles Austin Peay’s youthful energy. This renewed rivalry offers a chance for the Blue Raiders to assert their regional supremacy right out of the gate.e Raiders own a 38–12-1 all-time lead in the series, and oddsmakers have them favored by double digits at home.

JONATHAN
Middle Tennessee should have the edge in Saturday’s season opener. There was a rebuild after last season, and the team is better because of it. They’re bigger, faster, & the veterans have one year under Mason. The Governors have enough playmakers to keep things interesting early, but over four quarters MTSU’s depth and size should wear them down. Add in the home-field boost at Floyd Stadium, a chip on their shoulders after last season, and this feels like a game Mason’s squad controls after halftime.
Prediction: Middle Tennessee 34, Austin Peay 17

DRAKE
Nick Vattiato and the Blue Raiders are coming into 2025 with a near palpable energy surrounding them. Middle Tennessee looks hungry and eager to grow from last year. Despite having over 60 newcomers, MTSU returns several key starters and looks improved on both sides of the ball. As with any first game of the season, there will be some bumps along the way, but I expect Middle Tennessee to control the game.
Prediction: Middle Tennessee 38, Austin Peay 21

RJ
Even though the wins haven’t been the prettiest at times, the Blue Raiders have won their last four home openers, including a thrilling win against Tennessee Tech to kick off the 2024 season. This 2025 team, however, is much improved from last year’s team, has playmakers on both sides of the ball, and should have the ability to take down Austin Peay without wonder or worry. Derek Mason is looking to set off his second season with the Blue Raiders on the right foot, and with an improved roster from last year, it should be smooth sailing to Camp Randall in week two.
Prediction: Middle Tennessee 37, Austin Peay 24