Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick formally surrendered to U.S. marshals Monday, three weeks before his sentencing on a dogfighting charge.

Vick was scheduled to be sentenced December 10 on a dogfighting conspiracy charge, but turned himself in because he is anticipating the inevitable prison term, according to a court document and a U.S. marshall.

Officials are holding Michael Vick at least for now at Northern Neck Regional Jail in Warsaw, a U.S. marshall told The Associated Press.

The order filed in U.S. District Court said:

"Michael Vick has indicated his desire to voluntarily enter custody prior to his sentencing hearing. It appearing appropriate to do so, the U.S. Marshal is ordered to take custody of the Defendant immediately upon his surrender."

The order added that Michael Vick has been taken into custody "based solely on his desire to begin his period of incarceration prior to his sentencing hearing and not because of violation of any condition of his bond."

We can only hope O.J. Simpson follows suit.