Unveiling the Boulevard Beasts: A New Era in College Athletics Begins

In a groundbreaking collaboration announced exclusively through Lipscomb’s Herd Media and Belmont’s Belmont Vision Network, the two schools have set aside historic rivalries to begin a journey. Lipscomb University and Belmont University, competitors in academics and athletics, have unveiled plans to merge their strengths, talents, and passions to one stage: the football field. This unprecedented move marks a pivotal moment in collegiate athletics, as Lipscomb and Belmont come together to form the “Boulevard Beasts.”

The Beasts will be led by former Tennessee Titan, Kevin Dyson. In a statement, Coach Dyson mentioned, “I am honored to accept the position as head football coach for the Boulevard Beasts, where I will combine my passion for education and football to build a program that embodies teamwork, dedication, and excellence both on and off the field. Just as in life, success in football is achieved through hard work, perseverance, and a commitment to continuous improvement. I look forward to leading our student-athletes in their journey to greatness, both as players and as individuals, as we write the first chapter of Belmont-Lipscomb football history together.” 

Dr. Kevin Dyson transitioned from a celebrated career as a wide receiver in the NFL to a dynamic leader in education and community service. Known for his pivotal role in historic NFL plays like the Music City Miracle and The Tackle, Dyson’s gridiron legacy is widely recognized. Beyond the field, Dyson pursued higher education, earning a Master of Education degree and a doctorate. He subsequently embarked on a career dedicated to education and community involvement, holding positions such as counselor, coach, and principal at Centennial High School in Franklin, Tennessee. Dyson’s journey exemplifies a commitment to personal and professional growth, making significant contributions both within and beyond the game.

Ted Peetz, who assumes the role of offensive coordinator for the Boulevard Beasts alongside Coach Dyson, brings his experience from the chair of Sports Administration at Belmont University to the gridiron. His offensive style is noted for its reliance on precision passing, creative play-calling, and a constant drive for scoring opportunities. Peetz is known for crafting offensive schemes that aim to exploit opponent weaknesses while maximizing player strengths. Whether executing explosive passing plays or methodical drives, Peetz’s strategies are marked by adaptability and a focus on achieving results. As the Boulevard Beasts take the field, Peetz’s approach will be closely watched, with hopes that his tactics will contribute to the team’s success on game day.

The Boulevard Beasts also adds inaugural team captains, Belmont students, Kingston Gardner and Luke Miller, as well as, Lipscomb student, Gabe King.

Herd Media interviewed Gabe King to discuss his anticipation for the upcoming season. King expressed, “I’m super excited to just get on the field again and be a part of a team. It’s great to be a part of the brotherhood we’ve created and I’m excited to see how we handle adversity on the field.”

When it comes to the inaugural coaching staff King mentioned the styles of the new staff. “Coach Dyson is a great head coach! He values the players and we all have a great relationship with him. I’m all in with Coach Peetz too. His offensive scheme is great and easy to follow. Both coaches give as much effort as the players and we’re all excited to play for them.”

The Beasts will be playing its inaugural season as members of the United Athletic Conference, with opponents including Austin Peay State University, University of North Alabama, Abilene Christian University, and University of Central Arkansas.

The team will operate out of the Mustang Athletic Complex (Lipscomb Academy). Using it for practice, locker room, and office space.

The team will open the season in non-conference play against Vanderbilt at the current Nissan Stadium.

The Boulevard Beasts will play all of its home games at the current site of Nissan Stadium.

At this time, there are no intentions to develop football facilities, construct a stadium, or establish a football team. This announcement coincides with April 1st, commonly known as April Fools’ Day, and is intended purely for comedic purposes.