It’s a rivalry showdown between Delaware vs. Delaware State that opens a 2025 season full of intrigue and predictions. The Blue Hens have made the step up from the FCS to the FBS, while Delaware State has former NFL great Desean Jackson atop the program as first-year head coach. With that in mind, this Week 1 college football preview will break down the matchup’s history, key players, and keys to the game. Let’s get started.
Delaware Blue Hens vs. Delaware State Hornets: History and Excerpts
The “Route 1” rivalry has been played 11 times dating back to 2007. It has been dominated by the Blue Hens, who are undefeated against Delaware State. In fact, the smallest margin of victory for Delaware in this matchup has been 10 points, showcasing a one-sided rivalry dominated by the Blue Hens.
Speaking to the media on Monday, head coach Ryan Carty talked about the team’s upcoming matchup.
“I think every first game always kinds of run into the similar situations of, you’re not sure what you’re going to get,” began Carty. “Every first game with a new coach, whatever their background is … what have they picked up along the way that they’re gonna decide to do against us? What kind of offense and defensive schemes are they gonna run … and in farness, they’re probably thinking the same thing.”
However, Carty is going into this matchup focusing on what the team can do, rather than on their opponent.
“Hopefully we can do our best to worry a little bit more about [ourselves]. What are we gonna do, how are we gonna play, how can we execute really well. So [that] it doesn’t really matter what someone’s throwing at you.”
Delaware vs. Delaware State 2025: Keys to the Game and Predictions
Entering this 2025 matchup between Delaware vs. Delaware State are multiple key players, while predictions for what could be key moments in the game lay ahead. We’ll dive into key contributors for both teams, and what the Blue Hens need to do to come out with a victory.
Key Players for Delaware
While it has been widely assumed that Zach Marker would be the starting quarterback for Delaware, coach Carty implied that multiple players would be seeing the field for the Blue Hens. With that in mind, it leads to the assumption the run-game will be heavily used.
In steps Jo Silver, who replaces Marcus Yarns at running back. Silver has been named to multiple watch lists, and is expected to receive a heavy workload this season. Against an FCS defensive line, Silver should gain yardage with ease.
Another key player for Delaware is wide receiver (and returner) Jake Thaw. Thaw is a veteran presence on the offense, and the team’s most productive receiver on the roster. A lot of the passing attack will run through him, making him a key player in this matchup.
On defense, look for lineman Dom Brogna to be a force along the interior. Brogna is another veteran player on the roster expected to play a big role in 2025. Facing a team like Delaware State, stopping the run will be critical. It will force them to be one-dimensional, where Delaware’s defense could take advantage. But for that to happen, the players up front need to perform.
Key Players for Delaware State
After losing their starting quarterback late in July to the transfer portal, Delaware State brought in former Sacramento State signal-caller Kaiden Bennett. With such little time within the system, it’s likely the offense is heavily focused on running the ball. With that said, Bennett will have to succeed as a both a runner and passer if the Hornets wish to have success.
Another key player for Delaware State is wide receiver NyGhee Lolley. The wideout put up 541 yards on 40 receptions, leading the team in both categories. In order to win, the Hornets need their senior receiver to put up a big performance.
How the Blue Hens Win in Week 1
It’s true that Delaware is undefeated against their in-state rival. However, if they want that streak to continue in 2025, they need to take their opponent seriously.
On offense, the team needs to figure out their quarterback position and excel. Getting the ball to Jake Thaw in space and letting him get yards after the catch will be key. On top of that, Jo Silver will need to pace the running backs with a good performance.
On defense, the Blue Hens need to stop the run. Making Delaware State one-dimensional will give them an excellent chance to turn the game into a blowout. Ideally, Delaware can make this happen by the half allowing them to test certain concepts, while giving players extra looks in real game action.
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