In their first ever trip to the FCS Playoffs, the Old Dominion Monarchs (10-2) scored 35 unanswered points after allowing a 98-yard touchdown run to start the game and defeated the Norfolk State Spartans (9-3) 35-18 Saturday afternoon in Norfolk, Virginia.
ODU freshman quarterback Taylor Heinicke was phenomenal, completing 21 of 30 passes for 269 yards and five touchdowns. The Monarchs led 21-7 at halftime, and stretched the lead to 35-7 entering the fourth quarter, before Norfolk State finally mustered some offense in scoring the final 11 points of the game.
ODU's offensive outburst is even more impressive considering the fact Norfolk State's defense entered the game ranked third in the FCS in total defense, allowing just 266 yards per game, and fourth in scoring, allowing just 15.4 points per game.
ODU's victory advances them to a second round matchup at No. 3 seed Georgia Southern next Saturday. The game will be broadcast on ESPN3.
Stay tuned to this StoryStream for all your 2011 FCS Playoff news and notes. For a look at the full bracket, head on over to SB Nation's college football hub.