Norfolk State @ Rutgers preview

Last Meeting ( Sep 2, 2010 ) Norfolk State 0, Rutgers 31

Rutgers looks to record its first victory of the season when Norfolk State comes to town on Saturday. The Scarlet Knights dropped a 52-51 heartbreaker to Fresno State in their season opener. Coach Kyle Flood’s decision to go for a two-point conversion backfired and now nothing less than a win against the Spartans will suffice.

Seven FCS teams defeated their more illustrious FBS opponents last week and Norfolk State coach Pete Adrian is hoping the trend continues. The Spartans were no match for Maine last weekend and couldn't get anything going in their 23-6 setback. The offense will need to fire on all cylinders if an upset is indeed on the cards.

TV: Noon. ET, CBS Sports Network. LINE: None

ABOUT NORFOLK STATE (0-1): Quarterbacks Malik Stokes and Tyler Clark combined to go 13-of-37 for 144 yards in the loss to Maine. Senior wide receiver Joseph Hawkins had three receptions for 49 yards and a touchdown. Norfolk State has never beaten an FBS team but led West Virginia at halftime in its 2011 encounter before succumbing to a 55-12 defeat.

ABOUT RUTGERS (0-1): Rutgers quarterback Gary Nova threw for five touchdowns against Fresno State, which tied his personal best. Sophomore wide receiver Leonte Carroo hauled in three touchdown passes among his five receptions while junior running back Paul James ran for a career-high 182 yards on 22 carries. Dave Cohen’s defense gave up a total of 537 yards but managed to force three turnovers.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Rutgers is 31-3 all-time against FCS teams - with its last loss coming against New Hampshire in 2004.

2. Norfolk State crossed the 50-yard line only three times last week.

3. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie predicted Rutgers would end up with a 9-2 record this season.

PREDICTION: Rutgers 42, Norfolk State 13