Some NSU Perspective on the Game

As we are two days away from the second game of the season, I thought it would be fun to talk to another beat writer and get some opponent perspective heading into this weekend, so I dropped a line to David Hall, NSU writer for the paper in my hometown, the Virginian-Pilot. 

Fan the Flames: How did the team feel following the performance against Maine last Saturday? (a 10-6 Spartans loss)

David Hall: I think they walked away mostly encouraged, despite the lack of offense. Maine is a top-25 FCS team, which bodes well for how the Spartans might stack up against the MEAC. Plus, it was a tough trip. The team flew into Portland, Maine, early Friday, bussed 2 1/2 hours to Orono for a workout and then returned for the game Saturday night. I can tell you firsthand: Maine is far.

FTF: Quarterback has been a question mark since the spring. Did any of the three QBs (Malik Stokes, Omari-Ali Timmons, Terrance Ervin) show any sign of taking a lead in that competition?

DH: NSU coach Pete Adrian was especially impressed with Ervin, who debuted late in the fourth quarter with the game on the line and almost pulled it out. Although Adrian won’t name a starter this week, it wouldn’t surprise me to see Ervin take the field. Meanwhile, let’s not forget about junior left-hander Tyler Clark, who was named the starter after spring ball but couldn’t recover from a hamstring injury in time for the opener. His activity has increased this week, so he could be a factor.

FTF: How good is the defense and is it a unit that can carry the Spartans this year?

DH: Adrian said the defense is as good as he’s had in his 10 years at the school. Opposing coordinators have to account for 6-foot-7 linebacker Lynden Trail, who will likely play in the NFL. And NSU’s secondary is as good as they come at the FCS level.

FTF: Looking ahead to this weekend, what is the biggest key for Norfolk State if they want to even the series with Liberty and likely spoil their at large aspirations

DH: It’s pretty simple: The Spartans have to show improvement on offense. They proved their defensive mettle against Maine, but 100 yards of total offense won’t cut it against anybody. When Maine started bringing pressure early in the game, NSU’s offense looked out of sorts. The coaches will have to solve that problem quickly.

FTF: Is this game the "Super Bowl" for the Spartans or are they treating this as just another game, one that could help their own playoff aspirations even though it is only the second game of the season for both teams?

DH: With all due respect to Liberty, I wouldn’t say NSU is treating this game any differently. Every game is important, and this one is no bigger than any other non-conference contest on the schedule. The Spartans’ main concern, in my opinion, is getting things in order before their MEAC opener against Morgan State on Sept. 27.