Both of them are from the Newport News, Virginia area and both of them were fabulous high school quarterbacks who were amazingly talented athletes.
They both have been among the most exciting players to ever play their resepective sports.  Each has made million upon million of dollars in their careers.
Each has had a fall from grace because of their behavior, now they both are here in Philadelphia chasing redemption. 
Vick, who admitted to having a super ego in Atlanta, now maintains a humble and thankful attitude.  His teammates rally around him and all he talks about is contributing to the team and finding a way to win.
We saw the same thing last night when Iverson played his first game as a Philadelphia 76ers.  He was passing the ball and playing defense.
Iverson, who used to have the reputation of being a player who nobody could play with, is now a team player.  He comes across as a humble player who is willing do whatever he can to help the team.
Yes, now Iverson is even willing to pass the ball and practice.  Sixers head coach Eddie Jordan talked about the intensity Iverson brought to his first practice with the Sixers on Sunday.
Vick, who was never a fan of practice himself, gets to the Nova Care Complex at about six in the morning each day.  He lifts weights along side Donovan McNabb, then heads to the film room with him.
He stays after practice with McNabb and watches the practice film and puts in the time needed to be on top of the game plan.
Iverson is talking about putting in some extra work to get his legs back.
It’s truly amazing how much Allen Iverson and Michael Vick have changed and how much they have in common.
I think both of them have come face to face with their mortality.¬† They have seen limits to their ability and limits to their careers.¬† They now know that they won’t be able to play sports forever.
It’s a sobering thought.
I think each of them is trying to rehabilitate their reputation.¬† They’ve heard very demeaning things said about them and they want to change.¬† It won’t be easy, but redemption is possible.
They’re all still young men with a lot of life to live.¬† Hopefully they continue to live those lives wisely.
