HOF Artifact of the Week

These game-used high top athletic shoes worn by Michael Vick of the Atlanta Falcons in a 30-24 overtime victory against the Minnesota Vikings on December 1, 2002.

In the game Vick broke the record for the highest rushing average (17.3) for a game and the record for most rushing yards (173) in a game by a quarterback. This single game record was previously held by Pro Football Hall of Famer Marion Motley and the quarterback rushing yards record was previously held by Tobin Rote. Both records were over 50 years old.

Vick set the record with an electrifying game winning 46-yard touchdown run in overtime. Without the run, Atlanta would not have made the playoffs that season as a Wildcard team. 2002 was the first season Vick was the full-time starter for the Falcons. For his efforts that season he earned a trip to the Pro Bowl. What is most interesting about this artifact is that there is gum on the bottom of one of the shoes.

Our weekly artifacts and other unique items are featured daily in our docent presentations for visitors of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Plan your visit to the Hall to learn more about the collection in our archives.