In a tightly contested football game, Norfolk State narrowly defeated Virginia State 28-23, with both teams delivering standout performances in the battle of Big State vs Little State. Here’s how it all went down at William “Dick” Price Stadium.
First Half
The game opened with Norfolk State striking first. Jalen Daniels connected with Jacquez Jones for a 60-yard touchdown pass, putting Norfolk State ahead 7-0. Virginia State responded with an impressive drive that resulted in a 22-yard touchdown pass from Romelo Williams to Kevin Gayles. Josuah Campbell’s extra point tied the game at 7.
In the second quarter, Virginia State took the lead with a 2-yard touchdown run by Jimmyll Williams, making it 14-7. Norfolk State quickly answered with a drive that featured an 11-yard touchdown run by Daniels, leveling the score at 14. Norfolk State then gained the lead again when Daniels threw a 22-yard touchdown pass to Kam’Ryn Thomas, giving Norfolk State a 21-14 advantage at halftime.
Second Half
The third quarter saw Virginia State claw back into the game with a 28-yard field goal by Josuah Campbell, narrowing the deficit to 21-17. The period was characterized by a strong defensive effort from both sides, with neither team able to break through for additional points.
The fourth quarter brought significant action. Norfolk State extended their lead with a 64-yard touchdown run by Kevon King, pushing the score to 28-17. Virginia State responded with a drive that concluded with Romelo Williams’ 7-yard touchdown run, making it 28-23. Virginia State’s attempt at a two-point conversion was unsuccessful, and despite a late push, they couldn’t close the gap.
Offensive Highlights
Norfolk State’s Jalen Daniels had a notable performance, throwing for 210 yards and two touchdowns, while also contributing 31 rushing yards and a touchdown. Kevon King added 137 rushing yards and a touchdown, and Jacquez Jones led the receiving corps with 109 yards and a touchdown.
For Virginia State, Romelo Williams completed 14 of 20 passes for 171 yards and a touchdown, also adding 53 rushing yards and a touchdown. Jimmyll Williams and Tylique Ray contributed to the ground game, and Kevin Gayles and Malik Hunter were key targets in the passing game.
Defensive and Special Teams
Defensively, both teams made crucial plays. Virginia State’s Donavan Howard had a key interception return of 50 yards, while Norfolk State’s Jayden Smith contributed with an interception, highlighting the defensive intensity.
Special teams played a role, with Josuah Campbell making a 28-yard field goal and converting all his extra points for Virginia State. Norfolk State’s Grandin Willcox, though missing a field goal attempt, was perfect on his extra points.
Final Thoughts
The game was a showcase of competitive football, with both teams exhibiting strong offensive and defensive play. Norfolk State’s ability to make critical plays in the fourth quarter secured their victory, while Virginia State’s late-game efforts demonstrated their resilience. Both teams contributed to a gripping and closely-fought contest that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the final whistle.
Next up for Virginia State is a bye week followed by hosting Winston-Salem State on September 21. Norfolk State will revisit an old rivalry against Hampton next weekend in the Battle of the Bay.
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