Delaware State defeated Norfolk State, 27-20, in a MEAC clash Thursday night as two NFL legends faced off against each other on the sideline. Former Philadelphia Eagles teammates DeSean Jackson and Michael Vick went head-to-head as coaches at Lincoln Financial Field in front of over 47,000 fans.

Vick’s Spartans initially led 6-3 in the second quarter, but Jackson’s team responded with 16 unanswered points, gaining a solid advantage. The match concluded with both teams scoring two touchdowns in a high-scoring fourth quarter, highlighted by a 70-yard touchdown pass from JJ Evans for Norfolk State and a 76-yard run by James Jones for Delaware State.

“To be able to play at a stadium where Mike and I spent 20 years, reliving our past, was surreal,” Jackson reflected on Delaware State’s victory. “Thinking about this game every week was quite a journey.”

Post-game, Jackson and Vick shared an emotional moment, embracing at midfield, capping off a night to remember.

Vick expressed the significance: “It was surreal looking across the field at one of my best friends as a fellow head coach. Life can be unpredictable, and this moment was absolutely special.”

Both coaches are in their first seasons at their respective schools, with Jackson starting strong at 6-3 while Vick’s team has faced struggles at 1-8. Jackson hopes both coaches will inspire change at HBCUs, reinforcing their commitment to making a positive impact on young men’s lives.