Carson-Newman University, a storied institution in lower-level college football, is witnessing a profound spiritual revival within its football program. This week, 31 players from the team took a significant step in their faith journey by being baptized in Mossy Creek, a historic and cherished landmark on the university’s campus in Jefferson City, Tennessee. The event, which followed the team’s August 21st practice, marked the largest group baptism in recent years and was met with widespread celebration within the university community.

Carson-Newman is familiar with the tradition of baptizing players in Mossy Creek. It’s a cherished practice that has become an integral part of the football program’s spiritual culture. However, this year’s baptism ceremony was particularly remarkable, not just for the number of players involved but also for the deep sense of unity and commitment to faith it represented.

First-year head coach Ashley Ingram, who joined the program after a successful 16-year stint at the U.S. Naval Academy, expressed his joy and pride in witnessing such a significant spiritual milestone for his team. “I told the guys today that, obviously, we want to win a lot of games, and we want to win championships, but we won the ultimate championship today,” Ingram said, reflecting on the deeper meaning of the day’s events. “To see 31 guys give their life to Christ this morning and to publicly profess that is really special.”

Ingram’s arrival at Carson-Newman last December marked the beginning of a new era for the Eagles. With a rich history that includes five NAIA national championships and multiple appearances in the NCAA Division II championship game, the program has long been synonymous with excellence on the field. But for Ingram, the mission extends beyond victories and titles.

“When you look for a new head coach, you desire someone who aligns with the heart, head, and history of the program,” Carson-Newman President Charles A. Fowler said upon Ingram’s hiring. “Coach Ingram does that. He’s experienced and successful in running the option. He is a man of deep and expressed faith in Jesus. He has the skill and discipline to build a winning program. While he will bring fresh leadership to our storied program that builds on our legacy of excellence, he is going to lead this program into an exciting future marked by wins on the field, a Gospel impact on the lives of young men, and a faithfulness to the mission of Carson-Newman University.”

Ingram’s philosophy of coaching is deeply intertwined with his Christian faith. His vision for the team is not solely focused on athletic success but on fostering an environment where players can grow both as athletes and as individuals. This holistic approach was evident in his comments about the baptisms. “I said if we could bring kids here that don’t know Christ, it could have eternal ramifications,” Ingram noted. “Seeing that today was obviously very pleasing.”

The impact of this spiritual revival within the team is felt not just by the players but also by the broader Carson-Newman community. The university, a Christian liberal arts institution affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Mission Board, has long been committed to nurturing the faith of its students. The recent baptisms have become a powerful testament to the university’s mission of integrating faith and learning.

The significance of Mossy Creek as the site of the baptisms cannot be overstated. This historic waterway, which runs through the campus, has been a place of spiritual reflection and renewal for generations of Carson-Newman students. For the football players, being baptized in the creek symbolizes a deep connection to the university’s heritage and a public declaration of their commitment to living out their faith.

The news of the baptisms quickly spread across social media, with the university’s athletic program posting a message on X (formerly Twitter) that simply read, “Praise Jesus.” The post resonated with many, drawing attention to the unique spiritual culture within Carson-Newman’s football program.

As the Eagles prepare for the upcoming season, the players will carry with them not only the lessons learned on the field but also the profound spiritual experience of their baptism. For Coach Ingram and the university, the focus remains clear: to build a program that honors Christ in all aspects, both on and off the field. The recent baptisms are a powerful reminder that at Carson-Newman, faith and football are deeply interconnected, and the ultimate victory is found in the lives changed by the Gospel.