South Carolina State opened MEAC play with a 22-7 win over Norfolk State, building a 19-0 halftime lead behind two Mason Pickett-Hicks rushing touchdowns and a defense that forced three turnovers. The defending conference champions improved to 6-2 overall and 1-0 in the MEAC.

By the Numbers
  • SC State: 321 total yards; Norfolk State: 279.
  • SC State forced 3 turnovers and committed 0.
  • Pickett-Hicks: 2 rushing touchdowns on 9 carries for 52 yards.
  • Jett Jackson: 3-for-3 on field goals, including a 46-yarder.
  • SC State improved to 6-2 overall and 1-0 in the MEAC; Norfolk State fell to 4-4 and 0-1.
Yes, But

Norfolk State’s only score came on a 47-yard punt return touchdown in the third quarter, briefly cutting the lead to 12. The Spartans’ offense never scored, and SC State restored its cushion with a fourth-quarter field goal.

What’s Next

SC State continues conference play Thursday, Oct. 29, against Morgan State as it pursues a third consecutive MEAC championship.

Bottom Line

SC State opened its title defense with a controlled win: an early lead, opportunistic scoring and a defense that kept Norfolk State out of the end zone.