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The Road Warriors: HBCU Football's Week One Travels
Description
The road warriors of HBCU Game Day hit multiple states to bring you comprehensive coverage of college football's opening weekend, witnessing everything from NFL legend Michael Vick's coaching debut to nail-biting classics that set the tone for the 2023 season.
The most anticipated storyline belonged to Vick at Norfolk State, where approximately 19,000 fans—the largest non-homecoming crowd in years—packed the stadium donning every jersey from his illustrious playing career. The electric atmosphere couldn't translate to on-field success as the Spartans fell 27-7 to Towson. Observers noted Vick seemed to blend into the sideline rather than commanding it, perhaps showing the learning curve from player to head coach. Despite the loss, Norfolk State fans remained optimistic: "It's just the first game, y'all. We're going to be back."
Meanwhile, the John Merritt Classic delivered heart-stopping drama as Tennessee State survived North Carolina A&T's late comeback attempt when they blocked a potential game-tying field goal to secure a 24-21 victory. A&T's quarterback change to a redshirt freshman sparked their offense, leading many to believe they'll secure their first Division I win since September 2023 in the coming weeks—perhaps even at homecoming.
The Red Tails Classic in Montgomery featured Winston-Salem State and Tuskegee battling before 15,000 fans on ESPNU. Beyond the on-field action, both schools participated in a giving challenge that raised substantial scholarship funds, including one remarkable $100,000 donation to Tuskegee. The SIAC conference claimed a 3-2 advantage over the CIAA in their cross-conference matchups.
Looking ahead to Week Two, Virginia State enters as a surprising 3.5-point favorite over Division I Norfolk State in what could be a telling matchup. As one host boldly stated, "If they let little state go on and take over big state...I'll know everything I need to know" about Norfolk State's potential under Vick's leadership.
Whether you're planning to attend games or watching from home, download our app for exclusive content, breaking news, and in-depth analysis from the people who are actually in the stands witnessing HBCU football history as it unfolds.
- (01:10) - Week One Reflections and Travels
- (09:24) - Michael Vick's Coaching Debut
- (18:02) - Norfolk State Game Experience
- (28:14) - John Merritt Classic: A&T vs TSU
- (35:47) - Red Tails Classic: WSSU vs Tuskegee
- (42:48) - Week One Results and Takeaways