As the Norfolk State Spartans approach the final week of their season, Head Coach Michael Vick is on the brink of achieving his first Division I victory. The Spartans have faced a challenging season, recording just one win against Division II rival Virginia State University, and entering the last week of conference play with a 1-10 overall record.
Despite their struggles, Norfolk State has shown competitiveness in several matchups. They displayed resilience by holding a lead against Sacred Heart right until the end, nearly upsetting North Carolina Central even after losing quarterback Otto Khuns to injury. They also pushed Morgan State to the wire, showing that, while they may have faced challenges, they are capable of competing at a high level.
The difficulties the Spartans face are not due to a lack of talent; rather, they stem from strategic missteps and struggles to establish a consistent identity. The team includes notable players such as two of the top receivers in HBCU football, J.J. Evans and DreSean Kendrick, as well as preseason All-MEAC running back Kevon King. Veteran quarterback Khuns has been a reliable presence, but inconsistency and discipline issues have left Norfolk State among the most penalized teams in the MEAC.
Expectations were higher for the Spartans at the beginning of the season, particularly since they were ranked in the middle of the conference, while Delaware State was placed at the bottom. The fact that many of their losses have been related to strategic decisions rather than a lack of personnel indicates the potential that the team possesses. With the upcoming game against Howard University, Vick may have a promising opportunity to secure a long-awaited Division I win.
Howard University began the season strongly, achieving victories against Florida A&M in the Orange Blossom Classic and rival Hampton University. However, following those successes, the Bison have suffered three consecutive losses to Richmond, Sacred Heart, and Tennessee State, claiming only one MEAC victory against Morgan State as they approach the end of the season.
One of Howard’s key challenges has been inconsistency in quarterback play. Tyriq Starks has struggled this season, throwing 11 interceptions alongside six touchdowns. His recent performance against Delaware State, which included 252 passing yards and a touchdown but two critical interceptions, highlights the team’s need for improvement. Under the leadership of Larry Scott, the program is in a rebuilding phase following successful championship-contending seasons in 2022 and 2023.
Looking ahead to the matchup, it is predicted that Norfolk State’s offense may have the upper hand. If Vick and his staff maintain an Air Raid strategy—one that has shown effectiveness in recent games—the Spartans could capitalize on their offensive plays. While they have often surrendered points due to defensive miscues or self-inflicted errors, if Norfolk State can play disciplined football and fully embrace the strengths of their passing game, they stand a solid chance of emerging victorious. A win could serve as a much-needed boost of momentum heading into what is anticipated to be a pivotal offseason for the Spartans.