MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - Middle Tennessee State University has completed a major upgrade to Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium, just in time for the upcoming football season. A brand-new synthetic turf surface was fully installed this month, marking a significant step in modernizing the home of the Blue Raiders.

The project, which began earlier this spring, replaced the previous playing surface that had been in place since 2014. The new field features Shaw Sports Turf’s state-of-the-art “Game On” system—designed to enhance player safety, improve field performance, and reduce maintenance needs. The turf also includes fully integrated field markings and custom graphics, giving the stadium a fresh and modern look.

University officials and athletic staff celebrated the project's completion on social media, with MTSU Athletics sharing photos of the finished field and announcing, “The Floyd Stadium turf project is complete and ready for @mt_fb to take the field! (FACEBOOK)

TIME LAPSE VIDEO FROM BLUE RAIDER ATHLETICS

The new turf is part of a broader series of facility enhancements at MTSU. Construction continues on the North End Zone Student-Athlete Performance Center, a multi-million dollar facility aimed at boosting athletic training and development. Additionally, video board upgrades and stadium improvements are underway to elevate the overall fan experience.

Floyd Stadium, which seats over 30,000 spectators, has been the centerpiece of MTSU football for decades. The turf upgrade aligns with the university’s efforts to maintain top-tier athletic facilities and support its student-athletes at the highest level.

The Blue Raiders will debut the new field during their 2025 home opener later this year.