It's the first game of the rest of Delaware football's life.
The Blue Hens are playing their first game as an FBS program, getting a tune-up before collecting a paycheck from Colorado, hosting UConn, and diving into Conference USA play.
They should be dangerous. Ryan Carty's last two teams were terrific in the FCS ranks, and there's enough experience back to keep the success going.
Delaware State has managed two victories in the last two years, but it's hoping to catch fire right away with new head man DeSean Jackson. The former NFL deep threat is getting his first shot at a head coaching gig.
Delaware vs Delaware State: How To Watch
Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Game Time: 7:00 PM ET
TV: ESPN+
Location: Delaware Stadium, Newark, DE
It's DeSean Jackson, so the idea is to get the offense moving fast with plenty of pressure played on opposing secondaries.
He has a few parts to make this interesting, getting former Sacramento State quarterback Kaiden Bennett to go along with leading passer Marqui Adams to try making the passing game go. Leading receiver NyGhee Lolley is back, but ...
The Delaware defense will be a plus early on.
The line loses the top pass rushers, but the Hornets won't be able to run on this bunch. The linebacking corps might be the team's biggest strength, and the secondary is full of veterans, starting with an outstanding group of safeties.
Delaware State might be fun under Jackson, and there are more parts in place, but this is a total rebuild. As long as the Blue Hens do
n't start turning the ball over early, they shouldn't have too many problems.
This won't get too out of hand until late. Delaware won't be threatened.
Delaware State will come up with a big play or two, and it'll take a little while for the Delaware offense to connect with a few new receivers getting their shot, but the lack of a Hornet pass rush will be a problem.
The Delaware experience will keep this from ever getting dramatic.
Delaware 48, Delaware State 10
Consensus Line: COMING, o/u: COMING
ATS Confidence out of 5: COMING
Must See Rating: 1.5
Consensus Line from BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel. Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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