Michael Vick, Norfolk State Unveil 2026 Football Schedule

Spartans look to bounce back after 1-11 season in Vick's second year as head coach

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Michael Vick and Norfolk State University have announced the Spartans' 2026 football schedule, which features key matchups against regional rivals and conference foes as the team looks to improve upon a 1-11 record in Vick's second season as head coach.

Why it matters

Vick's hiring as Norfolk State's head coach in 2025 generated significant buzz, and the 2026 schedule will be a crucial test as he looks to turn the program around and establish the Spartans as a contender in the MEAC conference.

The details

The 2026 schedule features several intriguing matchups, including a season-opening home game against Winston-Salem State, road games against Old Dominion and the University of Virginia, and the annual 'Battle of the Bay' rivalry game against Hampton University. The Spartans will also face South Carolina State, the reigning MEAC and Celebration Bowl champions, as well as matchups against Delaware State and North Carolina Central.

  • The 2026 season will kick off on September 5 with a road game against Old Dominion.
  • Norfolk State will host its homecoming game on October 10 against Virginia University of Lynchburg.
  • The Spartans will face South Carolina State, the reigning MEAC and Celebration Bowl champions, on October 24.
  • Norfolk State will close out the regular season with games against Morgan State and Howard University.

The players

Michael Vick

Former NFL quarterback who is entering his second season as the head coach of the Norfolk State Spartans football team.

Kijafa Vick

Wife of Michael Vick and alumna of Hampton University, whose annual matchup against Norfolk State holds special significance.

DeSean Jackson

Former NFL wide receiver who is the head coach of the Delaware State Hornets, one of Norfolk State's conference opponents.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to build on the progress we made last season and show that Norfolk State is a force to be reckoned with in the MEAC.”

— Michael Vick, Head Coach, Norfolk State Spartans (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

The Spartans will look to carry momentum from their 2026 schedule into the 2027 season, where they will aim to compete for the MEAC championship and a spot in the Celebration Bowl.

The takeaway

Michael Vick's second season as Norfolk State's head coach will be a critical one, as the Spartans look to bounce back from a disappointing 1-11 campaign and establish themselves as a contender in the MEAC conference.