STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. – Wagner football rallied from a 13-point first-half deficit to earn its first win of the season, defeating Norfolk State 18-13 on Saturday afternoon at Hameline Field.
The Spartans, coached by College Football Hall of Famer and four-time NFL Pro Bowler Michael Vick, capitalized on two early turnovers to build a 13-0 lead with 11:32 remaining in the second quarter. Norfolk State carried that advantage into halftime, but would not score again.
Wagner got on the board midway through the third quarter when graduate student running back Andre Hines Jr. powered in from one yard out to cut the deficit to 13-6. Just minutes later, senior quarterback Jordan Barton connected with freshman Malik Redd-Hubbard on a 62-yard touchdown strike down the sideline, pulling Wagner within one. The play marked Barton's first career passing touchdown for the Seahawks and the first of Redd's career.
The decisive score came early in the fourth quarter, as Barton found sophomore Johans Bars for a 24-yard touchdown on third down, capping an 80-yard drive to put the Green & White in front 18-13.
From there, Wagner's defense sealed the victory. Graduate students Akil Lampley and Luke Jakubauskas each came up with interceptions, while sophomore Ethan Appolon added a sack and forced fumble.
The Seahawks finished with 397 yards of total offense, including 214 on the ground. Hines Jr. led all rushers with 108 yards and a touchdown, while Barton threw for 183 yards and two scores. Redd paced the receiving corps with three catches for 89 yards and a touchdown, while junior Jeremiah Colclough hauled in six receptions for 53 yards.
Defensively, Lampley posted a team-high 10 tackles to go with his interception, while senior Sam Martin added seven stops. Norfolk State (1-4, 0-0 MEAC) totaled 288 yards overall, including 148 through the air.
The Seahawks (1-4, 0-0 NEC) are idle next week before returning to Hameline Field for three straight home games, beginning with their NEC opener against Mercyhurst on Saturday, October 11. Kickoff is set for 12:00 p.m.
