Philadelphia Eagles: Is America Still Divided over Michael Vick?

Michael Vick continues to be a topic of discussion as we enter Week 4 of the 2011 NFL season. He recently drew headlines for signing a $100 million contract extension with the Philadelphia Eagles. Vick is now heaped in controversy again for his criticism of the officials after his Week 3 injury. Whether good or bad, people are talking about Michael Vick, but why is America following  Vick's every move?

The answer is simple. There is a deep division in America over Vick. Many are happy to see him thrive in his second stint in the NFL, while many critics remain angry Vick was allowed back in the league. It's a deep division that seems to always run along racial lines. All white people are not rooting against Michael Vick, as all blacks are not rooting for him, but in this case, the majority rules.

I've met few blacks who don't want Vick to succeed. I've met few whites who want Vick's success. The question is, how are these opinions formed? Are blacks being irresponsible in cheering a former dog fighter? Are whites being racist by not giving him another shot? Who is right?

The answer falls somewhere in the middle. Blacks shouldn't just root for Vick to be successful in football again. Michael Vick has a responsibility to himself and his community to be successful off the field as well.

Whites shouldn't wish Vick's downfall because of his past transgressions. A person who has changed their life for the better should be applauded, not shunned. The answer to the Michael Vick dilemma is simple: he deserves the resurgence. If Vick had not shown any positive changes, this story would have to be rewritten. Instead, Vick continues to excel on and off the field, providing a great example to all who have fallen.