Norfolk State University and Delaware State University will meet at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Saturday at 3 p.m., marking the second consecutive year the two MEAC programs clash in the City of Brotherly Love. Both head coaches—former NFL stars Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson—are eager to give their players a memorable experience on the professional‑grade turf.
Coaches reflect on past meeting
Vick, who played alongside Jackson for the Eagles from 2009‑2013, recalled the excitement of returning to the stadium. “To be able to bring our teams back into Lincoln Financial and just to go in there on the fresh grass and look around… I think it will be something that they’ll never forget,” he said. He added that the opportunity is “something I’ll always cherish for the rest of my life.”
Last season, Jackson’s Delaware State Hornets edged out Vick’s Norfolk State Spartans 27‑20. Vick praised Jackson’s composure in that victory, noting he “hasn’t thrown the fact that he got the best of his former teammate around too much.” Vick promised to return the favor this year, emphasizing his competitive drive without resorting to bragging.
Teams search for first MEAC wins
Both programs enter the game after recent setbacks. Norfolk State fell 22‑7 to league champion South Carolina State, while the Hornets dropped a 31‑12 decision to North Carolina Central. The loss leaves each team still seeking its first conference win of the 2026 season.
Vick indicated that the starting quarterback spot remains undecided. Freshman DaJean Golmond, who completed 17 of 35 passes for 162 yards with two interceptions against the Bulldogs, struggled in his limited action. Veteran Deljay Bailey, the Spartans’ original starter before an injury, is now healthy and ready to compete for the role.
What the game means for the programs
Beyond the scoreboard, the matchup offers a chance for the young athletes to experience a professional venue and to test themselves against a familiar opponent. Vick summed up his philosophy: “Don’t get it misconstrued, I want to win. I want to have bragging rights for the next 365 days for sure. But I won’t throw it in his face, I won’t get on a platform afterwards and be like ‘yeah, this meant everything to me.’ It’ll be onto the next game for sure.”
Jackson echoed a similar sentiment, emphasizing sportsmanship and the chance to showcase his team’s growth. Both coaches highlighted the importance of faith, family, and discipline in shaping their players’ character—values that resonate with the HyperLocal Loop readership.
Game details
The Norfolk State Spartans and Delaware State Hornets will kick off at 3 p.m. on Saturday at Lincoln Financial Field, 1020 Pattison Ave, Philadelphia, PA. Tickets are available through each school’s athletic department and the stadium’s box office.
Local fans are encouraged to attend and support the regional colleges, reinforcing the community spirit that college athletics inspire across state lines.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
