Football - Chattanooga Times Free Press

Bulldogs ready to put their ‘hottest camp’ to use

The Georgia Bulldogs have played many season openers inside a sweltering Sanford Stadium.

By David Paschall August 31, 2026

University of Georgia photo by Conor Dillon / Georgia junior running back Nate Frazier is looking to get off to a quicker start this season compared to a year ago.

Heavy workload in opener no issue for UTC’s Lalin

Kevin Lalin knew the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga was going to need him Thursday night. He didn't know it was going to need him 30 times.

By Gene Henley August 31, 2026

heavy-workload-in-opener-no-issue-for-utcs-lalin

Five takeaways from state prep football polls, including area 3A dominance

High school football in the Scenic City delivered once again in Week 2, which included a 22-point fourth-quarter rally on the road, a defensive slugfest at Silverdale Baptist, and some major statement victories.

By Patrick MacCoon August 31, 2026

Staff Photo by Seth Carpenter/ Silverdale Baptist senior Luke Burger (57) takes down South Pittsburg quarterback Knox Israel in this past Friday's 14-13 home victory for the Seahawks.

Marion’s Saylors joins Dalton’s Gibbs as NFL running back duo for Lions

What is expected to be one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL will have a pair of former Chattanooga-area standouts atop its running back depth chart when the 2026 season kicks off.

By Patrick MacCoon August 31, 2026

AP Photo Carolyn Kaster / Former Marion County star Jacob Saylors has earned an NFL roster spot as a running back for the Detroit Lions, where he will join former Dalton star Jahmyr Gibbs.

Curt Cignetti’s sustained success has changed the game for No. 6 Indiana on the recruiting trail

Branden Sharpe started his prep career with lots of potential and endless college options.

By MICHAEL MAROT / AP Sports Writer August 31, 2026

FILE - Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti watches during warm ups before the College Football Playoff national championship game between Miami and Indiana, Monday, Jan. 19, 2026, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rebecca Blackwell, File)

Falcons adding defensive tackle Gervon Dexter in trade with Bears

The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to acquire defensive tackle Gervon Dexter in a trade with the Chicago Bears.

By The Associated Press August 30, 2026

The Chicago Bears are trading defensive tackle Gervon Dexter, pictured, to the Atlanta Falcons for cornerback Clark Phillips and a fifth-round pick in the 2027 NFL draft. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)

Titans waive former starting QB Will Levis on NFL’s roster cuts day

Will Levis will get the chance to be an NFL starting quarterback again somewhere besides Nashville after being waived Sunday by the Tennessee Titans.

By ROB MAADDI / The Associated Press August 30, 2026

Backup quarterback Will Levis signs autographs for fans after practice at training camp for the Tennessee Titans on Aug. 4 in Nashville. (AP Photo/George Walker IV)

Rams regain defensive tackle Aaron Donald as former star ends retirement

Aaron Donald returned to the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, ending his retirement from the NFL after 2 1/2 years to chase another Super Bowl title.

By GREG BEACHAM / The Associated Press August 30, 2026

Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald takes the field for practice Sunday at the team's training complex. (AP Photo/Greg Beacham)

Final scores and photos from Friday’s Chattanooga-area prep football games

Check out the final scores and photos from Friday night's Chattanooga-area high school football games.

By Staff Report August 28, 2026

Staff Photo by Matt Hamilton / Ringgold cheerleaders root for the Tigers before they take the field at home for Friday night's football game against Catoosa County rival Heritage.

Falcons QB Tua Tagovailoa has mixed results in return to Miami

Tua Tagovailoa tried to keep his emotions in check Friday night as his NFL present, and potential future, met his past.

By The Associated Press August 28, 2026

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