Former Philadelphia Eagles teammates DeSean Jackson and Michael Vick are preparing for a notable event as their current teams, the Delaware State Hornets and Norfolk State Spartans, face off at Lincoln Financial Field on October 30. The matchup is being described as a significant moment for both Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).
The event was previewed following a practice session at the NovaCare Complex, where Jackson and Vick demonstrated their continued camaraderie. Both athletes now serve as coaches for their respective programs.
Jazelle Jones, City of Philadelphia’s City Representative and Director of the Office of Special Events, highlighted the importance of hosting such an event in Philadelphia: “Our city is no stranger to hosting world-class events. This game is going to be on and lit on October 30 with no exception,” Jones said. “This is a world-class stage for two incredible teams to not only showcase their grit and talent, but to provide these student-athletes with incredible networking opportunities that will inspire, empower, and help shape their future.”
Delaware Governor Matt Meyer noted the broader impact: “This is historic for the MEAC Conference in their 55th year. It’s historic for the people of Delaware and the people of Virginia, in addition to Norfolk State University and the great Delaware State University.”
Jackson commented on what fans can expect from the game: “The Linc gets crazy already. Now you’ve got two Legends, it’s going to be hype. There’s going to be a lot of conversations before the game, but during the game, we aren’t going to talk. It’s going to be heated. I know how he is and I know how I am. It’s going to be a lot of energy. October 30 is going to be huge.”
Vick added his perspective: “I think they can expect excitement. DeSean and I are excited about what we’re doing in life right now. God has been good to us, and we get to pour into these young men and teach them. We played at the highest level and we’re just trying to pass it down. We’re both competitors and we’re going to push our guys to the edge. This is a chance for us to put what we’ve learned over the past year on display.”
When asked about Philadelphia’s support for this HBCU showdown, Vick said: “That’s not surprising at all. The City of Philadelphia, despite the things we did on the field, it was more so about the things we did off the field. DeSean was always in the community doing outreach. I was always trying to do some form of outreach. Even though we had success on the field, we had a great time, we were always thinking about giving back. That was always a priority and people in this organization made it a priority.”
Both former players also discussed why they entered coaching roles after retiring from professional football.
“It’s great being able to go back home (to Virginia), first and foremost, and have an opportunity to touch so many kids in that area, an area where I grew up,” Vick said regarding his new position with Norfolk State Spartans football team; he emphasized mentorship as well as striving toward athletic achievement.
“Football is in our blood,” he continued.”Mentorship is in our blood…We had coaches who poured into us…We got an opportunity to reciprocate that.”
Jackson reflected similarly about his approach with Delaware State Hornets: “Since day one…I had to address the culture…For me it’s all about discipline…At end of day everybody is not going make it NFL…to be able say you can get guys walk across stage get degree diploma what want instill these young men.”
Both teams open their seasons on August 28—Delaware State against state rival Delaware Blue Hens; Norfolk State hosts Towson University Tigers.
