Michael Vick vs. DeSean Jackson at The Linc? Brilliant move all around

On October 30, Lincoln Financial Field is going to host a very cool matchup — Michael Vick’s Norfolk State vs. DeSean Jackson’s Delaware State. Two Eagles legends, now first-year HBCU head coaches, bringing their teams to the very field where they once lit it up together.

And you know what? It’s a genius move for everyone involved. Well, not that genius but the point still stands. Anyone with half of a brain knows damn well that this is basic Marketing 101 and good on Vick and DeSean to seize the opportunity.

Michael Vick vs. DeSean Jackson is going to be a cash cow.

When I first heard these two were squaring off, I was worried it was going to be a boxing match. Don’t get me wrong, I’d still tune in, but I never knew there was beef

Philly still absolutely loves both of these guys.

Vick’s comeback story with the Eagles is a major part of the team’s modern lore, and DeSean Jackson could probably run out of the tunnel tomorrow and still draw a standing ovation just for his Miracle at the Meadowlands heroics alone.

So yes, it makes perfect sense for the now head coaches to leverage that built-in fanbase and pack The Linc for an HBCU showcase. It’ll be great exposure for both Norfolk State and Delaware State and serve as an incredible way for them to raise their collective profiles as well as put HBCU football on the national stage.

And of course we’d be foolish to ignore the elephant in the room — NIL is king in college sports now and if these two programs are bringing their brand to Philly and to play in an NFL stadium to showcase your talents, it obviously helps across all levels.

Recruiting, NIL deals, alumni and donor interests, you name it. Everything about this game can be a boost to both schools, if marketed the right way and with Vick and Jackson at the helm, obviously they are on the right path.

Tickets go on sale June 17, and I’d expect a big turnout. Not just for the novelty of seeing Vick and Jackson coach against each other, but because this city genuinely loves these guys. It’s true, too. When DeSean got cut, my heart shattered. When they re-signed him, I was over the moon, and then immediately heartbroken when Father Time caught up to him.

It’s rare to get a matchup where nostalgia meets new beginnings. This one checks both boxes. And hey, if the night ends with Vick and D-Jax racing each other down the sideline one more time for old time’s sake? I think we’d all be more than okay with that.

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