The massive clash between the Michael Vick supporters and those who believe he should never be able to don another NFL jersey never happened. Yes, Vick was on hand to show football fans – particularly those in his new town, Philadelphia – his stuff on the field after nearly two years in a federal prison. But, for all the million-dollar hullabaloo over the 29-year-old quarterback’s return, the big night fizzled like an Alka-seltzer in the rain. As The Philadelphia Daily News’ David Gambarcorta put it, it was “about two rings short of a three-ring circus.” Yes, local NAACP President Whyatt Mondesire showed up with pro-Vick troops, but his battalion was about a third shy of his promised 30 troops. He had hoped that an ocean of supporters would show up at Lincoln Financial Field to send a strong signal about Vick’s right to earn a living in his profession of choice, since he had already paid his debt to society. “A lot of people say he shouldn’t be given a second chance,” Mondesire said, blasting what he called racist anti-Vick radio programs. “We’re tired of a one-sided dialogue.” As for the expected horde of animal-rights advocates, it was more like a mini gathering of sorts. The Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals decided to stay home from the game, opting instead to use the occasion to raise money for dogs who are victims of cruelty or dogfighting. Meanwhile, Vick made a relatively quiet debut on the field, ending the night with 4-4 passing for about 19 yards. His new squad squeezed out a last-minute 33-32victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

TAGS: Eagles, Michael Vick, NAACP, philadelphia, protest

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