WSSU Rams to Face Off Against Norfolk State and Head Coach Michael Vick in Highly Anticipated 2026 Season Opener

The Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) Rams football team is gearing up for an electrifying start to the 2026 season as they take on the Norfolk State University Spartans, led by head coach Michael Vick, in their season opener on August 29th. This highly anticipated matchup will not only showcase the talents of two HBCU powerhouses but also reunite WSSU's new head coach, Tory Woodbury, with his former mentor, Vick.

Woodbury, who spent last season as the special teams coordinator and assistant head coach under Vick at Norfolk State, is thrilled about the opportunity to test his team against such a formidable opponent right out of the gate. "I'm super excited about finding out where we stand as a team early in the season," Woodbury said. "Our schedule allows us to compete against good competition right away as we establish our identity. Then, of course, the CIAA competition itself is always top-notch! I can't wait!"

Following the season opener against Norfolk State, the Rams will host Mars Hill University on September 5th for their home opener. CIAA play will begin on September 12th as the defending champion Johnson C.

The Rams' CIAA schedule includes tough matchups against Livingstone College, Virginia State University, Bowie State University, Bluefield State University, Lincoln University (PA), and Fayetteville State University, culminating in the CIAA Championship game on November 14th at Durham County Stadium.

The WSSU-Norfolk State rivalry has deep roots, dating back to the early 1940s when the two programs were members of the Eastern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (EIAC). The two schools have been CIAA rivals for over three decades and briefly reunited during WSSU's stint in the MEAC. Norfolk State currently holds an 8-11-1 advantage in the all-time series, but the Rams will be eager to even the score and secure a victory against their former head coach and his Spartans squad.

"WSSU and Norfolk State have a rich history and tradition within the HBCU community. This matchup not only pits two talented teams against each other but also showcases the enduring rivalry and camaraderie that exists between these two programs. The HBCU community will undoubtedly be tuned in to witness this highly anticipated clash and support their beloved Rams as they aim to start the 2026 season on a high note."

HBCUConnect.com is thrilled to cover this exciting season opener between the WSSU Rams and the Norfolk State Spartans. As the premier online community for HBCU alumni and supporters, we recognize the significance of this matchup and the deep-rooted connection between these two historic institutions. This game promises to be a must-watch event for the entire HBCU community, and we look forward to following the Rams' journey as they aim to claim the CIAA championship title.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.