Michael Vick on 1999 Heisman Trophy race: 'I should have won'

Michael Vick had a storied college and NFL career and was one of the most electric players to ever play the quarterback position.

But he didn’t win a Heisman Trophy while at Virginia Tech and Vick pointed to the 1999 race. Ron Dayne of Wisconsin fame, won overwhelmingly with 586 first place votes.

The running back was a senior and won it over Georgia Tech QB Joe Hamilton, Vick and Purdue QB Drew Brees. All of them were upperclassmen.

“Yes, based on the way I played, I should have won,” Vick said to Heisman winner Johnny Manziel on his podcast Glory Daze. “I just know I was an underclassman. I was a freshman (and) Ron Dayne paid his dues. He was like, destined for it. Those guys probably deserved it more than me being a freshman, just breaking through, because they had been consistent guys.”

In Vick’s first year as a starter in college, Vick threw for 1,840 yards, 12 touchdowns, five interceptions, a 59.2% completion percentage, 585 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns.

Of course, after another year under center, Vick was the No. 1 overall pick by the Atlanta Falcons in 2001. 

Following the 2006 season with the Falcons, Vick was suspended and pled guilty to federal charges amid a dog fighting investigation. After serving his prison sentence, Vick returned to the NFL and signed with the Eagles in 2009.

While he was electric and a three-time Pro Bowler with the Falcons, Vick saw a career resurgence under Andy Reid once he was named the starter in 2010 in Philadelphia. He led the Eagles to an NFC East title that season and found success under Chip Kelly in 2013 before being sidelined with an injury.

However, just as injuries derailed some early career success, Vick’s injuries caught up to him in 2013 and he eventually was let go by Philadelphia and ended his career as a backup with the Jets and Steelers the next two seasons.

After his playing career, Vick turned to television as an NFL analyst on FOX.

But now, the next chapter of his career begins as a coach. He was hired as the head coach of Norfolk State.

“I know how to lead and I know what it takes,” Vick told The Pilot. He also said he would hire a seasoned staff to help him transition to the position.

Norfolk State dismissed head coach Dawson Odums on November 26th. He compiled a 15-31 record during his four seasons.