In a highly anticipated coaching showdown that had been months in the making, DeSean Jackson’s Delaware State Hornets emerged victorious over Michael Vick’s Norfolk State Spartans with a 27-20 final score at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The score was way closer than the game was, as the flow was ultimately dictated by Delaware State’s clear game plan and dominance on the ground.
The game was tight in the first half, though a late surge gave Delaware State a slim separation. The Hornets’ victory was secured by their unwavering commitment to the run game, while Norfolk State—despite possessing effective passing weapons—was too slow to abandon its ineffective rushing attack.
Early in the game, the Spartans appeared to have found a weakness in the Hornet defense, which has struggled with pass coverage all season. Quarterback Otto Khuns (who has been effective as QB1 since early in the season) had moments of brilliance, including evading pressure and delivering key throws during Norfolk State’s early drives. However, Michael Vick was seemingly hesitant to fully commit to the passing attack, attempting to establish a run game that the Delaware State defensive line stuffed immediately…