CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE NOW) – In 2025, the Austin Peay football team accomplished plenty. The team picked up its first win over an FBS opponent since 1987, went undefeated at home, and saw quarterback Chris Parson have one of the best seasons in program history.
After the season, it was announced that Parson had committed to return to Austin Peay for the 2026 season. In this era of college athletics, it’s very common for players to enter the transfer portal after successful seasons. However, Parson feels like he has “unfinished business” with the Govs and wants to see it through in Clarksville.
With Parson and several other key pieces returning, it’s easy to see why expectations are sky-high for this program in 2026. As we prepare for the season, Parson sat down with Clarksville Now to talk about his decision to stay and his goals this year.
Parson credits Jeff Faris, culture for making 2026 decision easy
After throwing for 3,003 yards and 23 touchdowns while rushing for 743 yards and 14 more scores, Parson likely would have had plenty of options in the portal. However, the star quarterback saw that something special was building in Clarksville, and he wants to see how far he can help the team go.
“Our coaching staff really brought in the right guys,” said Parson. “Coach (Jeff) Faris and his staff truly believe in me and my skillset. Plus, I just love Clarksville.”
Wide receivers Jaden Robinson and Nate Garnett Jr., tight end Jackson Head, and running backs Kaden Williams and Courtland Simmons all contributed in 2025, and all will still play large roles in 2026.
“That’s a testament to the culture (Faris) has built,” Parson said. “Coach Faris is a great people person. He really cares. It’s truly been an honor to play for him.”
2025 was Faris’ second season at the helm, and the Govs improved greatly. During Faris’ first season, the Govs finished with a 4-8 mark, but they improved to 7-5 in 2025, in no small part thanks to Parson, and came one win short of a playoff appearance.
Big expectations for 2026 season
It was disappointing to narrowly miss the postseason in 2025, and every coach and player in the building wants to make up for that in 2026.
“We did some good things last year,” said Parson. “We went undefeated at home, beat an FBS team, but we want to go further. We’ve grown tremendously this offseason.”
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The Govs do have some tough opponents on the 2026 slate. They’ll notably have to take on Vanderbilt, UT Martin, Tarleton State, and Abilene Christian, among others. However, Parson isn’t looking ahead to the schedule and is instead focusing on the now and being the best quarterback he can be.
“We’re just taking it one week at a time. This team is very focused,” said Parson. “We’ll be ready for all opportunities that are presented.”
The Govs are set to open the 2026 season at home on Thursday, Aug. 27, against Gardner-Webb. Two of the team’s first three games are at home, and the third is in Nashville at Vanderbilt. Austin Peay will try to go 7-0 at home this season after going 6-0 at home last year.
If there’s one thing that’s clear after talking with Parson, it’s that he believes this team can be special.
“The ultimate goal is to win a national championship,” Parson said. “That’s the reason we came back. I am blessed and thankful that God brought me to Clarksville.”
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