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Norfolk State's defense dominated play and the Spartans shut out Virginia State 24-0 Saturday night in the season opener for both teams.
The Spartans held the Trojans to 107 yards of total offense, forced four turnovers and had seven sacks to notch their first shutout since 2001.
Linebacker Jamal Giddens got things started for Norfolk State's defense. He knocked the ball loose from Virginia State's quarterback Jarred Battle and the fumble was recovered by defensive lineman Shawn Fauntleroy in the end zone to give Norfolk State a 10-0 lead.
The Spartans opened the second half with a 70-yard kick return by Marcus Cooperwood, setting up a 2-yard touchdown run by freshman Brendon Riddick.
Riddick led the Spartans with 87 yards rushing on nine carries.
Norfolk's defense held Virginia State to just 10 yards rushing.
