by Shiloh Long

Nissan Stadium hosted Tennessee State University’s homecoming game for the umpteenth time this past Saturday evening. They faced the Spartans of Norfolk State University. A few under 14,000 witnessed the Tigers hold on to victory, after a furious comeback by the Spartans. Final score: 24-17.

At 4-2, this is the Tigers best start since 2017. As for Norfolk State (2-4), this was their third loss in four games. TSU blasted out of the gate on special teams with a 65-yard kickoff return to start the game. The Tigers were ready to play, at least in the first quarter. The Tigers raced out to a 17-0 lead. They wouldn’t score again until a little under six minutes left in the game.

As much as they were dominated early on, the Spartans didn’t lay down. They fought back, despite not completing a pass until the second quarter. They put 17 unanswered points on the board to tie the game, grabbing two turnovers in the process. But that wouldn’t be enough, as they would fall just short.

With turnovers on back-to-back possessions, TSU quarterback Draylen Ellis got his act together late in the ballgame, scrambling for an 18-yard touchdown. This was part of a 10-play, 75-yard drive led by the senior. It would seal the deal for the Tigers. “We’re battle-tested and we’re starting to understand that,” said Head Coach Eddie George after the game.

Ellis concluded the game, throwing for 76 yards on 6 of 11 passing—with one interception, and a touchdown. He also ran seven times for 54 yards, and a touchdown.

Norfolk State had 10 different players rush the ball. Jason Wonodi led them all, with 48 yards on just two carries. One of those two carries was a long run of 37 yards. Tracey Noah, the Spartan punter, had a heavy workload in this contest, recording six punts. A.J. Richardson led the defense with 11 tackles. Ten of them were solo tackles, and two were for loss.

The Tigers will be right back at it this upcoming Saturday afternoon hosting the Lincoln Oaklanders, out of Oakland, California. Game time: 2 pm.