NFL Playoffs come to Baltimore along with TU graduate

Towson University alum Tye Smith and the Tennessee Titans play the Ravens in the Divisional Round of the AFC playoffs on Saturday.

By Matt Palmer on January 9, 2020

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When the Tennessee Titans play the Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium Saturday, they will be bringing a Towson University alum — cornerback Tye Smith — with them.

Smith left TU early to enter the NFL and was chosen during the fifth round of the league's 2015 draft by the Seattle Seahawks. He returned to TU in 2016 to graduate in a moment that clearly meant a great deal to him.

Smith signed with the Titans in 2017 and had a big impact in two games this season. He scooped up a blocked field goal and scored on a 63-yard return in beating the Colts. He also forced a fumble in a victory over the Raiders. The Titans went 9-7 during the regular season and beat the defending Super Bowl champion New England Patriots in last week's Wild Card matchup.

Smith is one of two former Tigers currently in the NFL. Jordan Dangerfield, class of 2019, is a safety for the Pittsburgh Steelers. The two are friends who return to the TU campus with pride.

While the Towson University community will be rooting for Smith in the matchup, the campus is definitely in the Ravens' corner. The landmark Stephens Hall on TU's campus is lit purple this week in support of the hometown team.

In addition, Tigers' mascot Doc will join Ravens mascot Poe at the Towson Courthouse Thursday at noon for a rally. Former Ravens players Brad Jackson and Adalius Thomas are scheduled to attend, along with the team's cheerleaders, the Marching Ravens pep band and more.