It’s been a long time since Michael Vick has been considered a rookie.
However, the first-year head coach is setting a tone of intensity, accountability, and unity like an old pro as he prepares Norfolk State for its season opener in a few weeks.
Vick, candid about his transition to the head coach role, insists he is not approaching the job with the hesitations of a first-timer. “I know I’m a rookie head coach, but I’m not going to act like a rookie head coach… I want my players to be confident in me, my decision making, my ability to trust them in all situations,” said Vick, emphasizing the importance of mutual belief and trust within the team.
Since spring, the Spartans’ “knowledge of the game” and raw competitiveness have stood out. Vick describes practices as “back and forth,” with both offense and defense pushing each other daily. “It’s about holding them accountable. Our attitude and football competence are getting better every day,” he shared.
Building Toughness and Chemistry
Asked to describe his squad in one word, Vick replied, “tough.” He praised the players for their attitude and heart while stressing the need to harness this energy in the right direction.“Just keep believing, keep bringing energy every day. We know camp will get harder… The guys are embracing it.”
According to Vick, much of camp is focused on fundamentals and playing “as fast as we can.” The coaching staff has instilled the ‘HUNT’ mantra—pace, Unrelenting, Mirrorless, and Tenacious—reminding players to protect and pursue the football relentlessly.
Quarterback Competition & Leadership
Redshirt freshman Izzy Carter, a transfer from South Florida, has stood out as quarterback, receiving significant first-team reps. But Vick keeps the competition open, stating, “It’s more about competition, creating an environment where they push each other. I don’t want anybody to get complacent.”
Adjusting quickly to his leadership role, Carter credits the team’s developing chemistry: “Everybody’s just jelling together… The chemistry is a lot more there than it was in the spring. Everyone is more bought in.”
We’re finding our rhythm💯#GoldStandard🔰 pic.twitter.com/Qlx0JEvM9q
— Norfolk State Football 🔰 (@NorfolkStateFB) August 5, 2025
Focused on Growth and Sharpening Every Detail
“You have to be on top of your game, not just on the field stuff, but off the field too… You can’t just study football when you’re in the building. You’ve got to go outside the building… stay sharp at all times,” said Carter.
Competitive spirits are high, with Carter noting plenty of “trash talk” between offense and defense, but crediting Vick for keeping players level-headed.
“He always tries to keep it levelheaded. Don’t get too high in the moment. Stay right there, like a duck in the water—feet moving but calm on the surface.”
A Fast, Explosive Future
As the Spartans aim for a statement-making season, expectations are set.
And that will start with improving an offense that scored the third-fewest points (246) in the MEAC last season, averaging 20.6 points per game.
“We’re going to be an explosive offense,” said Carter. The focus is on “fast tempo,” relentless attack, and full team buy-in: “It’s not just me. It’s not just one guy. Everybody has to buy in and do their job.”
Vick and his players are eager to erase the underdog narrative: “Just because you’re at the bottom doesn’t mean you have to stay there… We’re ready to make a statement. This team is bought into everything.”
Their eyes remain locked on August 28, when they get their first chance to prove it on the field.
