The Virginia State University (VSU) Trojans started their 2016 football campaign with a 34-9 road victory against Lenoir-Rhyne University, aided by the play of senior quarterback Tarian Ayres, of Buckingham County.

The former Buckingham County High School student-athlete completed 17-of-24 passes for 201 yards and one touchdown pass to lead the Trojans on Saturday. He completed passes to eight different receivers and had seven carries for 46 yards.

Junior running back Trenton Cannon, of Hampton, led VSU with four receptions for 72 yards, including the 33-yard touchdown catch from Ayres.

Ayres completed passes to eight different receivers.

On Saturday, Sept. 10, the Trojans will be back in action at Rogers Stadium as they take on Tusculum College at 2 p.m. for Family Weekend and Military Appreciation Day.