One of college football’s most underrated rivalries returns to the gridiron in Week 1 of the 2025 season as the Delaware State Hornets travel to take on the Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET. The annual clash, often referred to as the Route 1 Rivalry, will be played at Delaware Stadium in Newark, DE, and broadcast live to a national audience.
This historic in-state matchup, featuring fierce competition between two programs with deep regional ties, has become a staple in Delaware sports culture. For fans, students, and alumni, 🏈 Delaware State at Delaware is more than just a game—it’s state pride on the line.
📅 Game Details: 🏈 Delaware State at Delaware
- Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Location: Delaware Stadium, Newark, Delaware
- TV Broadcast: FloFootball (expected) or regional network
- Streaming: FloSports App, team websites, CAA TV (regional)
The Blue Hens and the Hornets have a unique and passionate rivalry. Though it’s historically been dominated by one side, every meeting brings intensity and storylines that make for an electric start to the college football season.
🏟️ Venue Spotlight: Delaware Stadium
Delaware Stadium, also known as “The Tub”, is the home of Blue Hens football. With a capacity of just over 18,000 and recent renovations boosting its amenities, it’s one of the premier FCS football venues in the nation. The atmosphere, especially during in-state rivalry games, is intense and deeply rooted in tradition.
The 2025 edition of 🏈 Delaware State at Delaware marks another chapter at this iconic stadium, where the Fightin’ Blue Hens have protected their turf with pride.
🔍 Team Previews: 🏈 Delaware State at Delaware
Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens: A National Title Contender
Delaware enters 2025 with big expectations. Under head coach Ryan Carty, the Blue Hens have steadily climbed the ranks of FCS powerhouses, making deep playoff runs and competing with the likes of North Dakota State and Montana State.
- Quarterback: Junior QB Zach Marker returns with two years of experience and a calm, efficient presence under center.
- Backfield: RB Kyron Cumby, a Texas Tech transfer, adds explosiveness and balance to the offense.
- Wideouts: WRs Thyrick Pitts Jr. and James Collins offer size, speed, and elite route running.
- Defense: The Blue Hens are known for tough, disciplined defense, led by LB Johnny Buchanan and DB Justis Henley.
Delaware’s mix of veteran leadership and talented transfers positions them as favorites not only in this game, but for a deep postseason push.
Delaware State Hornets: Rebuilding with Purpose
Delaware State, representing the MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference), is in the midst of a major rebuild. Following a difficult 2024 season, the Hornets hired new head coach Antoine Wallace, a former assistant at Morgan State, to instill energy and vision.
- Quarterback: Sophomore Marquez Wheeler takes over the offense. Known for his athleticism, he brings mobility and upside.
- Running Game: RB Christian Johnson will shoulder the load behind a young offensive line.
- Receiving Threats: WRs Elijah Caldwell and Dante Jones provide vertical threats and YAC ability.
- Defense: LB Jordan Miles and DE Chad Hunter anchor a defense that will need to contain Delaware’s balanced attack.
The Hornets are looking to make a statement. Despite entering as underdogs, rivalry games often bring out unexpected performances.
⚔️ Key Matchups to Watch
Zach Marker vs. Hornets Secondary
Marker’s calm command of the pocket and quick release will test Delaware State’s secondary early and often. If DSU’s corners can’t stick with Pitts and Collins, this game could open up quickly.
Marquez Wheeler vs. Delaware Front Seven
Wheeler’s legs could be Delaware State’s best weapon. If he can create broken plays and keep drives alive, the Hornets can flip field position and momentum.
Line Play in the Trenches
Delaware’s offensive line returns 4 starters, including All-CAA tackle David Kroll. DSU’s defensive front will be challenged to slow down the run and get any pressure on Marker.
Special Teams Execution
In close rivalry games, special teams become pivotal. Delaware’s special teams unit ranks among the best in the CAA, while DSU is still breaking in a new punter and kicker.
📈 Odds, Predictions & Betting Trends
Projected Line: Delaware -28.5
Over/Under: 53.5
Spread Prediction: Delaware -28.5
The Blue Hens are heavy favorites, and for good reason. Their offense, depth, and coaching stability give them a major edge. Delaware has consistently dominated this matchup, and barring a major shock, that trend may continue.
Over/Under Pick: Under 53.5
If Delaware gets out to a big lead early, they may slow things down. The Hornets may struggle to score enough to push this total over, especially if Delaware’s defense takes control.
⭐ Players to Watch: 🏈 Delaware State at Delaware
Zach Marker – QB, Delaware
Poised and efficient, Marker is the engine of this offense. His decision-making and pre-snap reads could carve up a young Delaware State defense.
Johnny Buchanan – LB, Delaware
A tackling machine and vocal leader, Buchanan sets the tone defensively. Expect double-digit tackles and a few highlight hits.
Kyron Cumby – RB, Delaware
The Texas Tech transfer is explosive in open space and gives Delaware a home-run threat in the run game.
Marquez Wheeler – QB, Delaware State
If Wheeler can avoid turnovers and use his feet to extend drives, the Hornets have a shot at competing for four quarters.
Chad Hunter – DE, Delaware State
Hunter is quick off the edge and could make life uncomfortable for Marker if he gets past the Blue Hens’ tackles.
🧠 Coaching Comparison: Carty vs. Wallace
- Ryan Carty: A Delaware alum and offensive mind, Carty has revitalized the Blue Hens program with modern schemes and strong recruiting.
- Antoine Wallace: A rising coaching talent, Wallace inherits a program in need of identity. His challenge will be keeping his team competitive against one of the best in FCS.
Carty has the experience and program stability, while Wallace is building from the ground up. It’s a classic David vs. Goliath scenario with local pride fueling both sidelines.
📊 Historical Series Recap
- All-Time Record: Delaware leads 11–0
- Largest Margin of Victory: Delaware 45–0 (2019)
- Closest Game: 17–10 (2011)
- Last Meeting: Delaware won 35–9 (2024)
Despite the lopsided series, each game renews a fiery battle for state bragging rights. For Delaware State, a win would be historic. For Delaware, the pressure is to maintain dominance and avoid becoming the footnote of a major upset.
❓ FAQs: 🏈 Delaware State at Delaware
When is the game?
Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET.
Where is it being played?
Delaware Stadium, Newark, DE.
Is this a conference matchup?
No. Delaware is in the CAA; Delaware State plays in the MEAC.
How can I watch it?
FloFootball or regional TV networks. Streaming available via FloSports app or CAA digital network.
What’s the expected outcome?
Delaware is a heavy favorite, but rivalry games often bring surprises.
What’s at stake?
State bragging rights and strong early momentum. For Delaware, national rankings and playoff projections matter. For DSU, it’s a chance to change perception and gain respect.
🏁 Final Score Prediction: Delaware 38, Delaware State 10
Expect the Blue Hens to control the game from the start. Their offensive rhythm, experienced quarterback, and defensive structure should be too much for the young Hornets team to handle. Still, expect DSU to compete with grit and show growth under their new regime.
Game MVP Prediction: Zach Marker throws for 250+ yards and 3 touchdowns.
Surprise Performer: Kyron Cumby breaks a 50+ yard run and adds versatility in the passing game.
📌 Why You Should Watch 🏈 Delaware State at Delaware
- In-State Rivalry: The Route 1 Rivalry is about more than football—it’s about tradition, pride, and emotion.
- Coaching Stories: Carty is chasing a title; Wallace is building a new culture.
- Early Season Energy: Week 1 matchups bring unpredictability and excitement.
- Program Identity: Both teams will begin writing their 2025 stories.
- Playmakers Everywhere: From FCS All-Americans to up-and-coming stars.
Whether you’re a die-hard Delaware fan, a proud Hornet alum, or just love college football rivalries, 🏈 Delaware State at Delaware promises fireworks, history, and heart in Week 1.