NSU Spartans' linebackers pick up where they left off in 2011

NORFOLK, Virginia - After linebacker-led Norfolk State won the MEAC championship in 2011, senior Corwin Hammond proclaimed the Spartans "Linebacker U." Even with Hammond's departure, NSU has lived up to its newly proclaimed reputation.

On Saturday, during a 24-0 win over Virginia State in each team's season opener, the Spartans trotted out linebackers as three of their four captains.  Like last year, the Spartans won with defense. Like last year, linebackers led the way.

Senior Jamal Giddens came out in the second half with dehydration and still finished with seven tackles, 4 1/2 for loss, two sacks and a pair of forced fumbles, all of which came when the game was still tight.  "I feel like the linebacker unit gets better every year," Giddens said. "After the season, I felt like we might lose a step. But after spring ball, I felt great."

Giddens was Norfolk State's best player and the primary reason NSU led 10-0 at halftime. His sack and strip of Virginia State quarterback Jarred Battle gave NSU its first, and only, touchdown of the first half.

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