Philadelphia

DeSean Jackson, Michael Vick ⁣to be Honored as Norfolk state and Delaware State Face Off in Philadelphia HBCU Classic

PHILADELPHIA – ‌Former‍ Philadelphia eagles stars DeSean Jackson and ⁢Michael Vick ​will be recognized thursday ‌night as Norfolk State University and Delaware State University meet in a ‌highly anticipated HBCU football showdown at Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field.‌ The game‍ represents a renewed focus on celebrating Black ‌culture and athletic excellence on a national stage, building on a ⁢rich history of HBCU football in the city dating back to ​the 19th⁤ century.

The matchup is more than just a contest between ‌two programs; it’s a deliberate effort to highlight the meaning of Historically Black ​Colleges and Universities and provide a rallying point for communities, especially at a time when Philadelphia and the⁣ broader HBCU landscape are seeking ‍positive momentum. LaVeist,a ⁤Lincoln Board of Trustees member,emphasized the game’s importance as a tribute to those who‌ paved the ⁢way‍ for‍ current athletes. “When this‍ game is played and ‍you see these great athletes – ⁣it’s actually a reminder, ⁤and⁢ them going ‌back ⁢and recognizing, ‌and paying homage to who paved the way,” he said.

The game’s timing comes after a challenging weekend for ​lincoln University, following the cancellation of its homecoming game⁢ due to a threat of violence. Despite‍ the disruption, Lincoln alumni are demonstrating solidarity with the wider⁢ HBCU ⁤community ‌and plan to attend Thursday’s game. “Despite what happened on Saturday, we’re not trying to let that ​get ⁣in the way of our support of other HBCUs,” said a Lincoln graduate from ‍the Class of⁣ 1985.

Philadelphia’s connection to HBCU football is​ deeply rooted in history. As early as the‌ 1890s, Lincoln University and ⁢Howard University competed at Shibe Park (later Connie ‌Mack stadium). By the⁣ 1920s, their annual contest evolved into “The Classic,” a Thanksgiving Day ⁤tradition played in Philadelphia, ⁣Washington D.C., and ​Atlantic City until 1960.

Throughout the decades, ⁤Philadelphia has⁤ continued‌ to host significant HBCU matchups. Franklin Field⁤ hosted howard’s 6-0 victory over Florida A&M in 1975. Northeast high School was home to ‍The ⁢Wade Wilson Classic/Battle of the Firsts, showcasing Lincoln and Cheyney University, the nation’s ⁤oldest HBCUs.⁣ In 2000, Veterans Stadium hosted the Richard⁤ Allen Classic, where North Carolina Central ​defeated Morris‌ Brown College 19-16.

Stinson III‌ underscored the broader impact ⁤of the game, ‌stating, “This game, ‌Norfolk State vs. Delaware State, ⁤is kind ⁣of putting⁤ us back into that mantra⁣ and ‍that thoght process of, ‘These ⁢games are meant to bring together‍ excellence, Black culture, [and the] Black experience on a national platform.'” He added, “It’s ⁤great to ⁢have that culmination come together, where peopel – no matter what their HBCU connection is -‌ are able ⁢to come and experience a⁣ great game highlighted by two great coaches, especially at a time when America, Philadelphia and HBCUs need something to rally⁣ around.”

Krystle Rich contributed to this report.