Virginia Union 34, Virginia State 31

October 21, 2006

Virginia Union University's Elihu Smith ran for 176 yards on 24 carries to power VUU to a 34-31 win over in-state rival Virginia State in the Gold Bowl, held Saturday in Hovey Field in Richmond, Va.

VUU's Lamar Little connected on 15 of 23 passes with no interceptions for 196 yards. Little also passed for three touchdowns, giving the sophomore 20 touchdown passes on the season.

Smith and VSU's Travis Valentine were named MVPs of the Gold Bowl. Valentine rushed for 130 yards on 22 carries.

The win raises VUU's record to 6-2 overall and 4-1 in CIAA play. The win also garaunteed the first winning season for the Panthers since 2003.

VSU dropped to 1-7 overall and 1-4 in CIAA play.

VUU now travels to Bowie State on Saturday.