Michael Vick didn’t have to attend lengthy to expertise his first signature second on the sidelines. In simply his second recreation as head coach of Norfolk State, the previous NFL star led the Spartans to an exciting 34-31 additional time victory in opposition to Virginia State on Saturday at Dick Value Stadium.

Down 23-10 with simply over three minutes left within the third quarter, the result appeared bleak as followers started submitting out. That’s when senior quarterback Otto Kuhns stepped in and adjusted the power fully. For the second straight week, Kuhns was inserted off the bench, and he instantly ignited the Spartans’ offense.

He marched Norfolk State 70 yards on a nine-play drive to tug inside six early within the fourth quarter. Minutes later, Kuhns capped off a six-play, 78-yard possession with one other rating that gave the Spartans their first lead of the night time, 24-23.

Virginia State rallied to push the sport into additional time at 31 apiece, however the momentum was already on Norfolk State’s facet. The Spartans protection held agency within the further body, forcing a turnover on downs. That arrange kicker Evan Helfrich’s 29-yard subject objective, which break up the uprights and secured Vick’s first win as head coach.

“Thanks Jesus,” Vick stated after the sport when requested what was going by way of his thoughts because the profitable kick sailed by way of. “I like what I’m doing. I like being round these guys each day… making an attempt to inspire them. That’s our second.”

Kuhns completed with 173 passing yards and two touchdowns, sealing himself because the spark plug of the comeback. The victory marked a milestone for Vick, who has usually spoken about his ardour for mentorship and constructing younger athletes.

Norfolk State will look to hold this momentum into subsequent week once they journey to face Rutgers.