As Norfolk State navigates its bye week, head coach Michael Vick remains focused and energized despite the Spartans’ 1-6 start. After wrapping up non-conference play with a 31-14 road loss to Wofford, the former NFL quarterback is now fully dialed in on the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) schedule — and the road to the Celebration Bowl.
“This is probably my most important week as a coach,” Vick said during Monday’s media call. “We’re treating the first seven games like preseason. Now we get to make adjustments and focus on what’s ahead.”
What’s ahead is a homecoming clash against defending MEAC champions South Carolina State on Oct. 25 at Dick Price Stadium. For Vick, the stakes – and the motivation – are clear.
“It’s definitely motivation when you’ve got the champs coming into your backyard, especially on homecoming,” he said. “It’s going to take unbelievable focus.”
Despite a rough start in the win-loss column, the Spartans have shown flashes of growth. In their latest outing, they committed just one turnover and six penalties — two points of emphasis for Vick and his staff. Norfolk State’s young defense also recorded two takeaways.
“We’ve learned so much about ourselves,” Vick said. “We’ve been dealing with adversity, but we’re using it to get better — on and off the field.”
Part of that growth has meant refocusing beyond football. Vick emphasized academics and life skills, noting the program had to “put football aside” temporarily to address off-field issues.
“When you’re failing in other areas — areas that are probably far more important than football — it just doesn’t come together,” Vick said. “So, we’re addressing that. And I think that will translate to the field.”
Running backs Kevon King and Xavion Evans remain key pieces for the Spartans’ offense, and Vick hopes this week provides an opportunity to spark the ground game behind a more disciplined offensive line.
“Kevon is one of our trusted leaders,” Vick said. “He understands what’s in front of him and wants to finish strong.”
Despite public rumors about staff changes and off-field tension, Vick remained candid, saying his approach is rooted in transparency and self-reflection.
“I tell my team and coaches — I don’t play football, I really play football,” Vick said. “So, I’m going to look at everything and be critical of myself first. I’m not sugarcoating anything.”
The MEAC opener will also mark Vick’s first conference game as head coach — a role he’s embracing despite the weight of expectations.
“As a pro, you have a preseason. In college football, you don’t,” he said. “But I’m enjoying the process — making decisions, learning from them, and watching these guys grow. We know what’s still in front of us.”
The Spartans return to action Saturday, Oct. 25, hosting South Carolina State at Dick Price Stadium in Norfolk. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. and will be broadcast on ESPN+.
