Norfolk, Va. – After a heartbreaking 29‑28 defeat to North Carolina Central on Saturday, Norfolk State head football coach Michael Vick spoke to the press on Tuesday to clarify the clock‑management mistake that turned a likely victory into a loss.
What went wrong
With a 28‑23 lead and under two minutes remaining, the Spartans could have run the clock down to about 14 seconds before punting, forcing the Eagles to start deep in their own territory. Vick said his intention was to move the team into an “extended victory” formation, a strategy that would let the clock continue to run while a prevent defense settled in.
Instead, the offense snapped a play, and the ball was turned over. Vick insisted he had called for the victory formation but saw the team line up for a regular play. He later clarified that the plan was to stay in the extended formation, allowing the Spartans to bleed the clock and avoid a risky punt.
Coach Vick’s response
“I’m glad that it happened because we’re going to be in those situations again,” Vick told reporters. “We’re going to be winning football games again and we have to learn from this. It’s a lesson that will last a lifetime of coaching.” He described the incident as part of his learning curve as a first‑time head coach and said reviewing the film over the past two days has been “invaluable.”
Vick emphasized that no staff changes will result from the error. “Everybody makes mistakes. I made a mistake in that situation. I should’ve been more on top of it, but I won’t beat myself up about it,” he said. “You have to talk through those situations and make sure everybody understands what’s happening.”
Support from the coaching staff
The head coach also praised offensive coordinator Brian Sheppard, noting their strong working relationship. “I enjoy working with Coach Shepp. He’s an extremely hard worker with great understanding of the game. We have great energy and we work hard together,” Vick said. He added that both he and Sheppard shared responsibility for the miscommunication.
Vick cleared quarterback Deljay Bailey of any blame, stating, “That was not Deljay’s call. He didn’t make that call. He didn’t call the play.” The quarterback’s execution was not at fault; the error stemmed from the coaching staff’s procedural lapse.
Looking ahead
With the loss behind them, Norfolk State turns its focus to its final road game of the season against Morgan State on Saturday at noon. The Spartans hope to snap a four‑game losing streak against Division I competition and secure their first conference win of 2026.
“We’ve got to finish strong,” Vick said. “Whether at home or on the road, we need to find a way to win and get it done.”
Community reaction
Fans expressed disappointment but also optimism that the team will grow from the experience. Local supporters praised Vick’s transparency and his commitment to accountability, noting that his willingness to own the mistake sets a positive example for student‑athletes.
Norfolk State and Morgan State will meet on the Bears’ home field this Saturday, offering the Spartans a chance to rebound and end the season on a high note.
Original reporting: WTKR News 3 (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
