Spartan Sports
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Norfolk State football defeats South Carolina State in Season Finale
By Naji Mercer
The Norfolk State University football team concluded their season November 19 with a 42-
38 victory on the road over South Carolina State University (SCSU).
This win in the final game of the season aped their 4 game losing streak, and improved their record to 2-9 and 2-3 in conference play.
It was an all around great performance for the Spartans that resulted in three MEAC weekly awards.
Quarterback Otto Kohns led the game with 242 yards and accounted for all 6 touchdowns, which resulted in him being named MEAC Football Offensive Player of the Week.
Redshirt-Junior linebacker Tyler Long led the defense with 13 tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks, and one forced fumble. This performance resulted in Long becoming the MEAC defensive player of the week.
Running back Kevon King also earned an accolade, becoming MEAC Rookie of the Week honors after running 86 yards on ten carries against SCSU.
The Spartans defeating the Bulldogs was a historical game as multiple records were tied or broken and personal career highs were set. Kuhns’ five passing touchdowns were tied for NSU’s single game record.
In the first half, wide receiver Da'Quan Felton demonstrated resilience as he tied the single game record for touchdowns, as he caught three touchdowns. He accompanied that with a career high nine receptions for 163 yards.
The 42 points were the most the Spartans scored all season and was their second win since defeating the Morgan State Bears 24-21.
In an interview shared on NSU athletics’ instagram, with Ross Gordon, Coach Odums gave credit to the young players for the win, which may be a signal of hope for the future of the program.
Coach Odums states that upcoming recruiting will help the team a lot as despite their record, the team still has a good foundation. He believes gaining trust with one another during the off season will propel them for next season.
“We’re excited to end the year with a W and see what the off-season is gonna bring and get this
football team prepared for 2023,” Odums said.
A recap of some of the season...