Norfolk State desperately needs a win Saturday. They’re traveling to Audi Field in Washington, D.C. to face Howard this afternoon. The Spartans sit 1-10 overall, 0-4 in the MEAC. And they’re stuck in a brutal 9-game losing streak. That’s the second-longest skid in program history.
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🔥 Quick Facts:
- Norfolk State at Howard on Saturday, Nov. 22 at 3:30 PM ET
- The 31st meeting between these MEAC rivals at Audi Field
- Howard holds 20-10 edge in all-time series history
- Norfolk State won last matchup 21-20 in their most recent meeting
- Howard sits 4-7 overall, 1-3 MEAC entering finale
What’s at Stake for Norfolk State
Coach Michael Vick is in his first season leading the Spartans. The legendary NFL star took over this program amid huge fanfare and excitement. But the results on the field haven’t matched expectations. Now Norfolk enters this game with just one victory all season long. A loss would cement what looks like one of the worst seasons in recent memory. And plus, it’d be their 10th straight defeat. Still, Vick’s presence has done something remarkable—attendance numbers have skyrocketed despite the losses.
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The Spartans lost 35-28 to Morgan State last week on Senior Day. Before that? More of the same heartbreak. But here’s the thing: they’ve been competitive in many games. They’re not getting blown out every week. This game against Howard is their last chance to salvage something meaningful from this disappointing campaign.
Howard Trying to Build Momentum Late
Howard comes into this matchup with a 4-7 record and 1-3 MEAC mark. The Bison aren’t having a great season either. They lost 26-13 to Delaware State on the road just last week. That defeat was particularly tough because it took them out of the MEAC title picture. Graduate quarterback Tyriq Starks leads the Howard offense. The Bison are looking to finish their regular season on a positive note at home.
Head coach Larry Scott is in his sixth season with the program. Howard needs a win here to reach bowl eligibility. That’s not a guarantee anymore, but this game gives them one last shot. Playing at home at Audi Field should give them some edge.
Head-to-Head Statistics and Recent Trends
| Statistic | Norfolk State | Howard |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 1-10 | 4-7 |
| MEAC Record | 0-4 | 1-3 |
| Current Streak | 9 straight losses | Multiple losses recent |
| All-Time vs Each Other | 10 wins (31 games) | 20 wins (31 games) |
| Last Meeting | Won 21-20 | Lost 21-20 |
Howard dominates this series historically. They’ve won 20 of the 31 meetings between these rivals. Plus, they’re 2-1 against Norfolk State over the last eight matchups. But that most recent game? Norfolk State took that one down to the wire. A close game is very possible here. Both teams need the win badly for different reasons.
What to Watch For in This MEAC Finale
- Quarterback play will be critical. Can Tyriq Starks lead Howard to victory at home?
- Norfolk State needs to avoid turnovers. Mistakes have plagued them all season.
- Defense from both sides should step up. Championship mentality matters in finales.
- Home field advantage could be huge. Audi Field provides a crowd boost for Howard.
- Desperation plays a role. Both teams have everything to gain from a win here.
Can Norfolk State Finally Break Through?
Here’s the real question: Will Norfolk State finally snap this brutal losing streak today? They’ve been competitive in several games. They’ve had chances to win. But execution has let them down. Michael Vick arrived with so much hope and optimism. Now reality has set in hard.
Meanwhile, Howard wants to finish their season respectably and reach bowl eligibility. They’re the favorites in this matchup. They’re at home. They’re the better team on paper. But November rivalry games can play out unpredictably. Stranger things have happened. And with Norfolk State playing with nothing to lose? They could leave everything on the field. Which team steps up when it matters most? Kickoff is 3:30 PM ET today.
Sources
- Norfolk State Athletics – Official program updates and roster information
- Howard University Athletics – Bison football schedule and statistics
- ESPN College Football – Game details and season records
Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.