Norfolk State opens MEAC play Saturday at two-time defending champion South Carolina State, seeking to rebound from last year’s 51-20 Homecoming loss and disrupt the Bulldogs’ conference dominance. The Spartans (4-3) bring a turnover-making defense and strong special teams; South Carolina State (5-2) counters with elite offense and defense, though it enters after consecutive losses.

By the Numbers
  • Norfolk State: 4-3 overall; 11 interceptions and 16 turnovers gained.
  • South Carolina State: 5-2 overall; 43.6 points scored and 241.6 yards allowed per game.
  • The Bulldogs have won 11 straight MEAC games; coach Chennis Berry is 10-0 in conference play.
  • South Carolina State leads the series 23-5 and has won the last three meetings.
  • Kickoff: 1:30 p.m. ET Saturday, Oct. 24, at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium; ESPN+.
Yes, But

South Carolina State has set the conference standard, but its recent form is less imposing: the Bulldogs lost consecutive games for the first time under Berry before their open date. Norfolk State’s shutout win in its last game was convincing, but Saturday is a significant step up in competition.

State of Play
  • Both teams are opening MEAC play after a bye week.
  • Norfolk State leads the conference in interceptions, punt returns and time of possession.
  • The teams rank first and second in the MEAC in total defense, rushing defense, rushing offense, scoring offense and scoring defense.
  • Norfolk State quarterback Da’Jean Golmond is expected to start, with Deljay Bailey available after recovering from a shoulder injury.
What’s Next

A win could give Norfolk State an early conference statement and set the tone for its remaining MEAC schedule. The Spartans’ next game is Oct. 31 against Delaware State at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia.

Bottom Line

Norfolk State’s path to an upset runs through its takeaways and special teams—but it must contain a South Carolina State team that remains one of the FCS’s most complete programs, even after a pair of setbacks.