North Carolina Central University (NCCU) delivered a commanding performance in the 2024 Circle City Classic, defeating Norfolk State University (NSU) 37-10 on September 28 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. With the win, the Eagles improved to 3-2 overall and 1-0 in MEAC play, while the Spartans fell to 2-4 and 0-1 in the conference.
NCCU took control early, capitalizing on a strong first half. Quarterback Walker Harris orchestrated an impressive aerial attack, completing 19 of 25 passes for 245 yards and four touchdowns. The Eagles opened the scoring with a 63-yard bomb from Harris to wide receiver Markell Quick, capping a 98-yard drive. Just minutes later, running back J’Mari Taylor broke free for a 30-yard rushing touchdown, extending NCCU’s lead to 14-0 by the end of the first quarter.
The Eagles continued to apply pressure in the second quarter. Kicker Juan Velarde added a 23-yard field goal, and Harris connected with Luke Bracey on a 4-yard touchdown pass just before halftime, pushing NCCU’s lead to 24-3 at the break. Norfolk State’s only first-half points came from a 45-yard field goal by Grandin Willcox.
In the second half, NCCU maintained its dominance. Harris found Quick again for a 15-yard touchdown in the third quarter, and later hit Chance Peterson with a 12-yard touchdown pass in the fourth, bringing the score to 37-3. Norfolk State’s lone touchdown came midway through the fourth quarter, when Jacquez Jones capped off a 95-yard drive with a 14-yard rushing score.
Offensively, the Eagles were unstoppable, racking up 454 total yards, with 266 coming through the air and 188 on the ground. Harris spread the ball efficiently, and Quick led all receivers with five catches for 124 yards and two touchdowns. Taylor also contributed 86 rushing yards and a score.
Defensively, NCCU held Norfolk State to just 85 passing yards and sacked Jalen Daniels twice, while allowing only one red-zone trip all game. The Eagles’ defense, anchored by Jaki Brevard and Malcolm Reed, limited the Spartans to 244 total yards and forced Norfolk into multiple short drives and punts.
With this impressive victory, NCCU strengthened its case as a top contender in the MEAC, while Norfolk State will need to regroup as they look to rebound in conference play.
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