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COLUMBIA (WACH) – The Benedict Tigers gained a season-high 335 yards of total offense, but the defense wasn't up to the challenge as the Virginia State University Trojans took a 30-20 victory over the Tigers in the 11th annual Palmetto Capital City Classic at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium.

The Tigers, now 0-3 on the season, gave up five plays of 20 or more yards, including a pair of long touchdown passes from Virginia State quarterback LaMonta Green, who finished the game completing 12-of-19 passes for 206 yards and two touchdowns.

The Trojans, who improved to 1-2 on the season, also had 149 yards rushing, including a 51-yard run by Lamont Britt.

Senior quarterback Christopher Thomas started the game and played the first half, going 9-of-15 for 94 yards and a touchdown. Marcus Graham played the second half, going 7-of-20 for 138 yards and a touchdown and one interception. Christopher Johnson had 10 carries on the ground for 50 yards as the Tigers gained a season-high 103 yards rushing. Johnson had 196 all-purpose yards, adding 58 yards receiving and 88 return yards.

The Tigers take to the road next week, opening SIAC play at Fort Valley State.