Michael Vick's QB battle misstep highlighted in 'The Coach Vick Experience' premiere

The new BET docuseries provides behind-the-scenes look at Vick's first year as Norfolk State head coach

Feb. 5, 2026 at 12:15am

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The first episode of BET's new docuseries "The Coach Vick Experience" offers a glimpse into Michael Vick's transition from NFL star to first-year head coach at Norfolk State University. While the series is beautifully shot and the storytelling is masterful, it also reveals Vick's initial struggles in managing the quarterback battle between Israel Carter and Otto Khuns.

Why it matters

The show provides valuable context around Vick's decision to initially start Carter over the more experienced Khuns, which ultimately proved to be the wrong call as Norfolk State struggled early in the season. This behind-the-scenes look highlights the steep learning curve Vick faced in adjusting from being an NFL quarterback to leading an entire college program.

The details

The episode showcases the "Coach Vick Flip" - how Vick transforms from a reserved, emotional person in his personal life to a more vocal, energetic leader on the sidelines. However, it also reveals Vick's dismissive handling of personnel issues, particularly his tense interactions with Khuns over the quarterback battle. Vick's close relationship with Carter, dating back to when Carter was 13 years old, seemed to cloud his judgment in initially choosing him over the more talented Khuns.

  • The first episode of "The Coach Vick Experience" aired on BET on February 5, 2026.
  • Vick was named the head coach at Norfolk State in January 2025.

The players

Michael Vick

A former NFL quarterback who is in his first year as the head coach of the Norfolk State football team.

Israel Carter

A transfer quarterback from the University of South Florida who Vick chose to start over the more experienced Otto Khuns.

Otto Khuns

The incumbent Norfolk State quarterback who Vick initially named the backup despite outperforming Carter in practice.

Kijafa Vick

Michael Vick's wife, who threw him a surprise birthday party to support him during his first season as head coach.

Deion Sanders

The current head coach at Colorado, who previously led Jackson State from 2020-2022 and provided support to Vick during his first year at Norfolk State.

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What’s next

The series will continue to follow Vick's journey as he navigates his first season as Norfolk State's head coach, including the resolution of the quarterback battle between Carter and Khuns.

The takeaway

Michael Vick's transition from NFL star to first-year college head coach has been a steep learning curve, as highlighted by his initial mishandling of the quarterback competition at Norfolk State. The new BET docuseries provides valuable behind-the-scenes context on the challenges Vick faced in adjusting his leadership style and managing complex interpersonal dynamics with his players.