Lincoln Financial Field Hosts HBCU Week Finale: Delaware State Beats Norfolk State

Lincoln Financial Field served as the venue for the concluding event of the One Philly HBCU Week on Saturday, November 1, 2026. Delaware State University defeated Norfolk State University 36-33 in a matchup that capped a weeklong series of activities organized by the Philadelphia mayor's office. The initiative aimed to showcase the history and contributions of historically Black colleges and universities to the local community.

The week-long program brought together students, alumni, and members of the Divine Nine sororities and fraternities in South Philadelphia. Events leading up to the football game included cultural displays and community gatherings. On the day of the match, fans assembled outside the stadium for tailgating and socializing before entering the building. The gathering was intended to provide visibility to institutions that have historically educated and empowered Black communities.

El Hadji Mbaye, identified as Mister Senior at Delaware State University, noted the value of the recognition. "I feel like its's really important, because we don't get a lot of recognition, we are a small HBCU in Delaware. Delaware is the first state," Mbaye said. The presence of former Philadelphia Eagles players added a layer of local interest to the event. Michael Vick, who currently leads Norfolk State, and DeSean Jackson, the head coach for Delaware State, both returned to the Eagles' home stadium in their new roles.

Former defensive end Brandon Graham also attended the event. He observed that the involvement of Vick and Jackson helped drive public interest in HBCUs. "It's great that we are all now recognizing HBCUs even more getting that exposure with Vick and DJack being on the team it's driving more people to learn about HBCUs," Graham said. Attendees emphasized that the event focused on community identity as much as athletic competition. Edward Franklin, an alumnus of Lincoln University, stated that HBCUs help individuals understand their heritage and community ties.

Master Brown, a Delaware State alumnus, reflected on his personal experience with the institution. "HBCUs are pivotal, I believe. I'm a product of an HBCU and I love what my HBCU did for me," Brown said. The football game itself was tightly contested throughout the duration of the match. The score remained even until the final seconds of play. Delaware State scored the final points to secure the 36-33 victory over Norfolk State.

The game marked the end of the One Philly HBCU Week. The event concluded with the celebration of the two teams and the wider HBCU community in Philadelphia. No further events are scheduled for this specific initiative.