Delaware State Hornets Aim for Championship Glory Under New Coach Jackson

BALTIMORE, Maryland — In a thrilling matchup last Friday, the Delaware State Hornets celebrated a narrow 14-12 victory over Morgan State after a last-second miss on a field goal attempt. The win keeps Delaware State’s championship hopes alive as they approach their game against Howard on Saturday. Under first-year head coach DeSean Jackson, the Hornets find themselves two wins away from the Celebration Bowl, where they could vie for the Black National Championship on December 13.

Delaware State’s athletic director Tony Tucker, who hired Jackson, watched the jubilant scene unfold on the sideline. Tucker believes Jackson’s leadership is crucial for the whole program, signifying a cultural shift within the athletic department. “It’s a culture shift, it’s a university shift,” said Tucker. “We knew it was going to be a huge impact.” Jackson joined the program in a year when the Hornets previously had not achieved a winning season since 2012.

Before Jackson’s arrival, Delaware State struggled significantly, compiling a 0-5 record in 2023 and 2024. Tucker expressed confidence in Jackson from the beginning, noting, “I expected him [Jackson] to do really well.” With an impressive 7-3 overall record this season, the Hornets are now vying for their first conference title.

This year, Delaware State has surprised many by remaining undefeated in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) while Norfolk State, who hired Michael Vick as head coach, has encountered difficulties. “I wasn’t really paying attention to Coach Vick,” Tucker remarked about Jackson’s success. “It’s satisfying that he’s having some great results so early.”

Jackson, who has 15 years of NFL experience, is known for his unique coaching style. Tucker notes, “He’s a player’s coach. He’s not trying to fit into this cookie-cutter mold. He’s just being who he is, and the results are positive.” This authenticity resonates with Jackson’s players, including running back Marquis Gillis, who said, “Coach Jackson’s been really encouraging. We all look up to him.”

MEAC commissioner Sonja Stills praised Jackson’s impact on the league, stating, “He brings a new nuance to the sideline.” Stills highlighted how Jackson’s presence revitalizes Delaware State and enhances visibility for the MEAC as a whole. “The more you have individuals or students who can see that they can go to an HBCU and get this type of experience, this is what we want,” she added.

With the both the godfathers of college football—Vick and Jackson—now coaching in the MEAC, excitement builds for the future of the conference. As the Hornets gear up for their next matchup against a formidable opponent in South Carolina State on November 22, Jackson remains focused. “If we want to go to where we want to go, every game is gonna be tough. It’s one week at a time,” he said, highlighting the Hornets’ commitment to their ambitious goals.

The journey continues for the Hornets with hopes of making history by reaching the Celebration Bowl for the first time. Players and staff alike are ready to seize the opportunity and make their mark in college football.