Virginia State University upset Benedict College 23-7 in the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic on Sunday, ending the Tigers’ 20-game regular season winning streak.

Benedict (0-1) struck first after recovering their own blocked field goal attempt for a touchdown. The unusual play occurred when a Virginia State player touched the blocked kick beyond the line of scrimmage, allowing Benedict to legally recover it in the end zone.

Virginia State (1-0) quickly responded with two explosive plays. Quarterback Rhett Williams connected with Kevin Gayles for a 51-yard touchdown pass, followed by Jimmyll Williams’ 82-yard touchdown run. A successful field goal drive extended the Trojans’ lead to 16-7 by halftime.

The Trojans’ defense made a crucial play late in the second quarter when Cameron Davis forced a fumble with a strip sack, recovered by Akhari Haggard at Benedict’s 49-yard line. However, the Tigers’ defense held firm, preventing any additional scoring before the break.

J. Williams scored again in the third quarter, pushing Virginia State’s lead to 23-7. An hour-long rain delay followed, disrupting Benedict’s attempts to mount a comeback.

The Trojans’ defense dominated the second half, forcing two interceptions by Carl Poole Jr. and Jeffrey Wilson. They held Benedict to just 233 total yards for the game. In the fourth quarter, Poole’s diving interception at the VSU 44-yard line thwarted a promising Tigers drive. Wilson’s subsequent pick further solidified the Trojans’ control.

J. Williams led all rushers with 150 yards on 23 carries. Gayles finished with 75 receiving yards and a touchdown, while R. Williams completed 13 passes for 197 yards.

Benedict’s final opportunity was cut short as the VSU defense forced a turnover on downs, effectively sealing the victory.

Virginia State faces a short week as they prepare to play in-state rival Norfolk State on Saturday, Sept. 7. Kickoff is set for 4 p.m.