The CIAA weekend was an eventful one with the Virginia State University Trojans plaing in Maryland at Bowie State. VSU made it two straight over the Bulldogs and two consecutive CIAA victories with their 26 – 20 overtime win pushing the Trojans’ record to 3 – 4 on the season. The win gives State momentum heading into the big Homecoming weekend that culminates with this Saturday’s game against Lincoln University of Pennsylvania. Should be a great day for Trojan fans to get excited, Lincoln gave up 63 points to Elizabeth City this past weekend. A preview of things to come?
Meanwhile, a tough trip to North Carolina for the Panthers of Virginia Union University, who lost at Chowan University 28 – 21 on Saturday. It was Union’s fourth loss in their last five games, with the exception of the Panthers Homecoming victory over Lincoln. VUU now returns to Richmond for a home game this weekend against Bowie State University.
The Battle of the Bay took place this past weekend in Hampton where the Pirates played host to their arch-rivals from across the Chesapeake Bay, the Spartans of Norfolk State. As last year’s MEAC champions, NSU was picked to repeat and expected to be a player in the FCS playoffs this season, but that magic from 2011 has yet to appear on the field, and on Saturday, Haqmpton University basically ended any speculation about the Spartans chances of turning things around, upsetting Norfolk State in a 28 – 14 MEAC victory, the Pirates FIRST win of 2012.
Consider the Hampton win fuel for their morale after being placed on probation this season and made ineligible for the MEAC title or any postseason consideration. Well, realistically, meither are possible, but as a player, that stuff is a strain on the team’s mental motivation to win. No problem on Saturday though, this is a HUGE win for Hampton and their loyal fans and alumni.
