NORFOLK (WAVY) – The 2025 Norfolk State Spartans are hoping to reenergize the football program after struggles in recent years, and Newport News native Michael Vick is leading the way as head coach.
“Just because you’re at the bottom doesn’t mean you have to stay there,” Vick said after practice Monday morning. “They’re pushing one another, it’s like a heavyweight boxing match,” he added when speaking about the offense and defense.
Izzy Carter is expected to be the starter at quarterback entering the season.
“We’re ready to make a statement,” Carter said. “This team is bought into everything. We’re going to be an explosive offense, we’re going to attack and take shots. … It’s going to be a fast tempo offense.”
James Kattato has more in the report above.
The information below was provided by Norfolk State Athletics –
Norfolk State senior running back Kevon King has been named to the HBCU FCS National Player of the Year Watchlist, announced by Stats Perform FCS National Awards.
The award recognizes the top player among the 21 HBCU programs competing in the FCS Division I subdivision across the MEAC, SWAC, CAA, OVC, and Big South conferences.
This marks King’s second preseason honor, as he was also selected to the 2025 Walter Payton Award Preseason Watchlist, which honors the FCS National Offensive Player of the Year.
King earned All-MEAC Second Team honors last season after rushing for 944 yards and 10 touchdowns on 161 carries. He ranked third in the MEAC in both rushing yards and touchdowns. Ahead of the 2025 season, King landed on the All-MEAC Preseason First Team.
Norfolk State opens the 2025 season on Thursday, Aug. 28, against Towson at 7 p.m. The game will be broadcast live on the ESPN family of networks from William “Dick” Price Stadium.