Blue Hen News:
(Blue Hen) Football Set for Showdown Against New Hampshire
9/21/2023 - bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – The No. 19/16 University of Delaware football team is set for a top-20 showdown on Saturday when it hosts No. 11/12 New Hampshire for a critical early-season CAA matchup. Kickoff against the Wildcats is set for 6 p.m. at Delaware Stadium and the game will be broadcast simultaneously on FloSports and the Delmarva Sports Network.
HOW TO FOLLOW: Watch | Listen | Live Stats | Tickets | Delaware Game Notes | UNH Game Notes
ABOUT THE HENS
Delaware is coming off a convincing 42-14 win over Saint Francis in its home opener last Saturday in front of 16,332 fans at Delaware Stadium.
Marcus Yarns led the way with a career-high 139 rushing yards, his second 100-yard performance of the season, and two total touchdowns.
Ryan O'Connor passed for 192 yards and three scores.
Dillon Trainer returned an interception 56 yards for UD's second defensive touchdown of the season.
KT Seay was named the CAA Rookie of the Week after leading the Blue Hens with seven tackles and recording his first-career interception, picking off a pass in the end zone.
Yarns ranks sixth in the country with five total touchdowns, while also ranking ninth in rushing touchdowns (4), total rushing yards (332) and rushing yards per game (110.7).
ABOUT THE WILDCATS
New Hampshire enters Saturday's matchup with a 2-1 record. The Wildcats have wins over Stonehill (51-17) and Dartmouth (24-7) with a close loss to FBS-foe Central Michigan (45-42).
UNH is averaging 39.0 ppg and 416.3 ypg of total offense, while the defense is allowing 23.0 ppg and 355.3 total yards to opponents.
Max Brosmer has completed 63 percent of his passes for 844 yards and 10 touchdowns through the first three games.
Dylan Laube is averaging 99.7 rush yards and 119.0 receiving yards per game and has found the end zone seven total times on offense. He has also returned five punts for 88 yards and a score.
Ryan Toscano leads the defense with 21 total tackles, while Joe Eichman has two of the team's five interceptions.
SERIES HISTORY
The two teams have met 35 times since 1953, but this will be the first matchup since 2019.
The Blue Hens hold a 23-12 series advantage, including an 11-6 record in Newark, and have won each of the past three meetings.
In the most recent meeting, Delaware came away with a 16-10 victory at Delaware Stadium in another matchup of two top-25 teams.
Dejoun Lee and Will Knight both rushed for over 100 yards rushing, finishing with 103 and 101 yards, respectively. Lee scored UD's lone touchdown while Jake Roth connected on three field goals..
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KT Seay Named CAA Rookie of the Week
9/18/2023- bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – University of Delaware football defensive back KT Seay has been named the CAA Rookie of the Week, as announced by the conference office on Monday. The award, the first of the career for Seay and first of the year for the Blue Hens, recognizes his performance during UD's 42-14 home-opening win over Saint Francis on Saturday at Delaware Stadium.
Seay led the Blue Hens with seven tackles as 23 different players recorded a tackle in Saturday's victory. He recorded his first career interception, picking off a pass in the end zone during the second quarter when it was still a one-score game.
Delaware pulled away for the 42-14 win behind six-straight touchdowns. Marcus Yarns led the way with a career-high 139 rushing yards and two total touchdowns, while Ryan O'Connor passed for 192 yards and three scores. Dillon Trainer returned an interception 56 yards for UD's second defensive touchdown of the season.
UP NEXT
Delaware will continue its four-game homestand on Saturday when it hosts New Hampshire for a CAA matchup at Delaware Stadium. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m. and tickets are still available.
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St. Francis Football Drops Final Non-Conference Game to No. 22 Delaware
9/16/23 - https://sfuathletics.com
NEWARK, Del. – Saint Francis University football fell in its final non-conference game of the 2023 season 42-12 to No. 22 Delaware.
What You Need to Know
» Cole Doyle went 12-of-21 with 118 passing yards, one touchdown, one interception and recorded eight rushes for 46 yards.
» Casey McKinney led Saint Francis with four catches for 61 yards and one touchdown.
» Buju Aumua-Tuisavura tied a game high with seven total tackles and added one tackle for loss.
» Jalen Robertson finished with a game-high 1.5 sacks and five total players recorded at least 0.5 sacks for the Red Flash.
Turning Points of the Game
After a scoreless first quarter, Saint Francis opened the scoring with a four-yard touchdown to McKinney and took a 7-0 lead. Delaware responded on the ensuing drive on a 30-yard run and tied the game 7-7. Delaware scored two more touchdowns in the second quarter, which included with 12 second remaining, and opened a 21-7 lead at the half.
Delaware added two touchdowns in the third quarter before a fourth quarter touchdown capped a 42-0 run for the Blue Hens. Saint Francis scored the game's final touchdown of the game when Nick Whitfield, Jr. hit Luke Edwards for the first touchdown of their respective collegiate careers.
Flash Nuggets
McKinney finished the non-conference slate with 16 catches for 244 yards (15.3 yards per reception) and two touchdowns. He led Saint Francis in receiving two of the games.
Edwards and Whitfield both saw their first collegiate action on offense. Whitfield finished 5-of-8 with 57 passing yards, one touchdown, one interception and six rushes for 23 yards. Edwards finished with three rushes, 10 rushing yards, one catch for 11 yards and one touchdown.
Aakeem Snell (0.5), Carter Glassmyer (0.5) and Andrew Vines (0.5) all earned their first sack with Saint Francis.
Aumua-Tuisavura's seven tackles were his most with Saint Francis.
Aidan Cirulli recorded four punts with a 41.8 average and pinned two inside the 10-yard line. He is averaging 42.1 yards on 14 punts this season.
Next
Saint Francis is set to host Sacred Heart for its first conference game of the season on Saturday, Sept. 23 at 12 p.m.
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Six Unanswered Touchdowns Push Football Past Saint Francis 42-14
9/16/2023 - bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware football team pulled away for a convincing 42-14 victory over Saint Francis on Saturday evening. It was UD's home opener in front of 16,332 fans at Delaware Stadium. With the win, the Blue Hens improved to 2-1 overall while the Red Flash slipped to 0-3.
HENS HIGHLIGHTS
Ryan O'Connor finished 13-of-24 passing for 192 yards and three touchdowns.
Marcus Yarns broke the 100-yard mark for the second time, running for a career-high 139 yards. He scored both a rushing touchdown and a receiving touchdown.
Joshua Youngblood caught two passes for 63 yards and a score, while Kym Wimberly also had a scoring grab.
KT Seay had a team-high seven tackles and recorded his first career interception.
Dillon Trainer also had his first career interception, returning it 56 yards for a touchdown.
Alex Schmoke was a perfect 6-for-6 on PAT attempts.
HOW IT HAPPENED
After a scoreless first quarter, it was Saint Francis that drew first blood with a touchdown early in the second frame.
The Blue Hens answered right back as a 65-yard drive was capped by a 30-yard scoring run from Yarns.
After Christian Pierce recorded a strip sack on SFU's next play that Ty Davis recovered, Yarns received a shovel pass from O'Connor and scored from four yards out to make it 14-7 midway through the quarter.
Just before halftime, O'Connor hit Wimberly for a 9-yard gain on third-and-19, but Wimberly broke a tackle and scampered down the sideline for a 48-yard touchdown with just 12 seconds left before halftime.
In the third quarter, Youngblood made an acrobatic catch in the end zone around a defender for a 27-yard score to make it a 28-7 game.
Jo'Nathan Silver found the end zone for the first time in his career with a 1-yard plunge late in the third quarter before Trainer extended the lead to 42-7 in the fourth quarter with his pick-six.
Saint Francis capped the scoring with a late touchdown.
GAME NOTES
It was the second 100-yard game of the season and career for Yarns.
Trainer's interception return for a touchdown was Delaware's second of the season after Davis' pick-six at Stony Brook.
UP NEXT
Delaware will continue its four-game homestand next Saturday when it hosts New Hampshire for a CAA matchup at Delaware Stadium. Kickoff is slated for 6 p.m. and tickets are still available.
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Rich Gannon to Serve as Honorary Captain at Football Home Opener
9/15/2023 - BLUEHENS.COM
NEWARK, Del. – University of Delaware football alum Rich Gannon and his wife, Shelley, will serve as honorary captains for the Blue Hens' home opener on Saturday against Saint Francis. Gannon, a 2005 Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame inductee, is one of the most decorated athletes to come through the University of Delaware.
Gannon was a three-year starting quarterback for coach Tubby Raymond and earned All-American honors in 1986 when he was the Yankee Conference Player of the Year while leading the team to the NCAA quarterfinals. He was named UD's Outstanding Senior Male Athlete of the Year in the spring of 1987.
A 1987 graduate from Delaware, Gannon established 21 school records, including career marks for passing yards (5,927), total offense (7,436), and rushing yards by a quarterback (1,509).
Gannon was a fourth-round pick in the 1987 draft and went on to an outstanding 18-year NFL career with Minnesota, Washington, Kansas City, and Oakland in 1987-2004. He was a three-time All-Pro, was the NFL Most Valuable Player in 2002, and led the Raiders to the 2003 Super Bowl. He has gone on to an award-winning career as an NFL commentator and color analyst for CBS Sports.
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Football Ready to Open Home Slate Against Saint Francis
9/14/2023 - bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – After two straight weekends on the road to begin the season, the University of Delaware football team will play its home opener on Saturday evening when it welcomes Saint Francis to Delaware Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. and the game will be broadcast on FloSports.
HOW TO FOLLOW: Watch | Listen | Live Stats | Tickets | Delaware Game Notes | Saint Francis Game Notes
ABOUT THE HENS
Delaware is coming off a 63-7 loss at Penn State, ranked No. 7 in the FBS, last Saturday.
Playing in front of 108,575 fans at Penn State's Beaver Stadium, the Blue & Gold trailed by just one score after the first quarter following Marcus Yarns' 66-yard touchdown run.
Yarns has rushed for 193 yards and three touchdowns over the first two games.
Ryan O'Connor has completed 27 passes for 367 yards and a touchdown.
Ten different Blue Hens have caught a pass this season, with four receivers having caught five passes. Chandler Harvin leads the way with 100 receiving yards and Kym Wimberly has 81 yards and a touchdown.
Jackson Taylor leads the defense with 17 tackles, including a 10-tackle performance at Penn State. Tyron Herring has 14 tackles and one of UD's three interceptions while also forcing a fumble.
ABOUT THE RED FLASH
Saint Francis enters Saturday's game with an 0-2 record after road losses at Western Michigan (35-17) and Robert Morris (31-21).
The Red Flash went 9-3 in 2022 with a perfect 7-0 mark in the NEC to win the conference and advance to the FCS Championship.
Through two games this season, Saint Francis is averaging 19.0 ppg and 268 yards of total offense. Cole Doyle is 33-for-50 on the season, passing for 417 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for another.
QuaSean Holmes has rushed for two scores while Casey McKinney and Dawson Snyder have 183 and 121 receiving yards, respectively, with a touchdown each.
The defense is allowing 33.0 ppg and 459.0 ypg. Opponents are averaging 221.0 rushing yards and 238.0 passing yards per game.
SERIES HISTORY
Saturday will be the third meeting all-time, and in the past three seasons, between the two teams.
It will be the third-straight year that the Red Flash make the trip the Newark and the second time in three years (2021) that they are Delaware's first opponent at home.
UD defeated Saint Francis in the 2021 home opener 21-10 before winning 56-17 in the first round of last year's playoffs. The Blue Hens scored the most points in program history in an FCS playoff game and it was the second-largest margin of victory behind only the 2003 national championship game (40-0).
Last season, Nolan Henderson accounted for five total touchdowns as he finished 16-of-23 passing for 266 yards and four touchdowns while also rushing for another score. Kyron Cumby rushed 10 times for 111 yards while Chandler Harvin caught four passes for 128 yards and three touchdowns, becoming just seventh Blue Hen all-time with three touchdown catches in a game.
The Delaware offense finished with 586 total yards of offense with 283 rushing yards and 303 passing yards. UD's defense held Saint Francis to just 258 yards of total offense
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No. 7 Penn State makes light work of FCS-foe Delaware in 63-7 rout
9/9/23 - www.inquirer.com - by Max Ralph
STATE COLLEGE, Pa. — Penn State did just about everything it needed to and then some against Delaware.
By way of a run-heavy offense, the Nittany Lions dominated the Blue Hens, 63-7, in a tune-up game at Beaver Stadium.
Kaytron Allen led the way on the ground with 103 yards and a touchdown, while Nicholas Singleton, on 12 carries, added a career-best three scores and 47 yards. Drew Allar was sharp again after his starting debut last week, going 22-of-26 for 204 yards and a touchdown.
Allar took a seat for backup Beau Pribula with 9 minutes, 41 seconds to go in the third quarter. Pribula threw and ran for a pair of touchdowns as well. He engineered a five-play, 31-yard drive in which he ran for 26 of the yards, the last being a 6-yard scamper into the end zone with 7:16 remaining in the third.
Penn State quarterback Drew Allar (15) threw for 204 yards and a touchdown on 22 of 24 passing in the win over Delaware.
Penn State quarterback Drew Allar (15) threw for 204 yards and a touchdown on 22 of 24 passing in the win over Delaware.
Barry Reeger / AP
“Offensively, I just thought we were very efficient,”head coach James Franklin said after the win. “We were able to stay on the field, we were able to sustain drives, we were able to convert on third down, converted a few times on fourth down.”
Delaware’s (1-1 overall) lone score came on a 66-yard scamper by senior running back Marcus Yarns in the first quarter. The Penn State (2-0) defense was otherwise dominant, including an interception returned 26 yards for a touchdown by linebacker Dominic DeLuca.
What we saw
Yarns’ run broke through the left side of Penn State’s line, where he broke a tackle from linebacker Tyler Elsdon and outraced the Nittany Lion secondary. The defensive line slanted away from the run, but Elsdon was slow to fill the open gap. Run defense was also a weak spot against West Virginia, and Yarns’ run didn’t do much to remove doubt that there’s room for improvement.
“I thought we played really well. We had the one play where we were not gap-sound,” Franklin said. “The ball found that gap, and they got some talented guys that can run. Just a really good example of everybody’s got to do their job on a consistent basis.”
Advertisement
After minimal usage and just one catch last week, Penn State used its tight end room heavily Saturday. Tyler Warren hauled in six passes for 37 yards and a score. Theo Johnson caught two for 14 yards.
Highlights: Penn State 63, Delaware 7 pic.twitter.com/jcU1EBYj8z
— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) September 9, 2023
Penn State had eight different receivers catch a pass before Allar left the game. It was the second week that the load was shared after having nine different pass catchers against West Virginia. True freshmen and backups galore saw the field thanks to the blowout but performed well under the circumstances, showcasing important depth on Franklin’s roster.
Columbia transfer Alex Felkins started at kicker after Sander Sahaydak won the job out of camp but missed two short field goals last week. Neither one attempted a field goal against Delaware, but Felkins was 8-for-8 in PATs and Sahaydak did convert his only PAT when called upon in the second half.
Penn State running back Nicholas Singleton (10) celebrates one of his three touchdowns on the day against Delaware on Saturday.
Penn State running back Nicholas Singleton (10) celebrates one of his three touchdowns on the day against Delaware on Saturday.
Barry Reeger / AP
Breakthrough play
Singleton walked into the end zone untouched for the hat trick midway through the second quarter. He scored from 5 yards out twice and 2 yards once, including a touchdown out of Penn State’s coveted T-formation.
Penn State was solid but not dominant on the ground against West Virginia and used Saturday’s FCS opponent to establish physicality. Second-team offensive linemen rotated in before the first half ended.
Next opponent
Penn State hits the road on Saturday for its Big Ten opener at Illinois for a noon kickoff on FOX. The Fighting Illini have started 1-1 after losing multiple players to the NFL from last year’s team, beating Toledo and losing at Kansas.
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No. 7/7 Penn State Shines Against Border State Foe Delaware, 63-7
gopsusports.com - 9/9/23
Nittany Lions outgain the Blue Hens 541 yards to 140 yards in outstanding team win
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – No. 7/7 Penn State football (2-0) defeated Delaware (1-1, 1-0), 63-7, on Saturday afternoon in Beaver Stadium. The Nittany Lions racked up a total of 541 yards and scored eight offensive touchdowns while holding the Blue Hens to only 140 total yards and one touchdown.
Sophomore quarterback Drew Allar continued his outstanding start to the season, completing 22-of-26 passes for 204 yards and one touchdown. Redshirt freshman quarterback Beau Pribula entered the game for Allar in the middle of the 3rd quarter and scored one rushing touchdown and one passing touchdown, his first career throwing score.
Nicholas Singleton, and Kaytron Allen combined for 155 rushing yards and four touchdowns leading the Nittany Lion rushing attack that posted 315 in total on the afternoon. Through the air, Tyler Warren and Omari Evans hauled in touchdowns while KeAndre Lambert-Smith led the team with 74 receiving yards.
The Nittany Lions totaled an impressive 541 yards of offense (226 passing, 315 rushing) throughout the afternoon. Penn State scored on its first four drives of the afternoon, putting the pressure on the Blue Hens early and often.
Defensively, the Nittany Lions had an impressive performance, holding the Blue Hens to just seven points and 140 total yards of offense, 66 of which came on one rushing play. The defensive unit held Delaware to just five first downs in the game, tied for the fewest by an opposing offense since 2014.
Linebacker Dominic DeLuca recorded Penn State's first defensive touchdown of the season on the first career interception of his career in the late third quarter. DeLuca returned it all the way to the end zone for a pick-six. The defense also recovered one fumble, forced by Keaton Ellis and recovered by Kevin Winston Jr. Jaylen Reed, Zane Durant, and Zuriah Fisher each chipped in a sack.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Nittany Lions won the coin toss and deferred to the second half. Penn State stopped the Blue Hens on their opening possession of the game and scored on the ensuing drive, going up 7-0 with 8:19 remaining in the first quarter. Singleton punched in the first Nittany Lion touchdown of the day on a two-yard run, the result of a 13-play, 60-yard drive.
Reed posted a third-down sack on Delaware's next trip down the field, forcing a punt and giving the Nittany Lion offense excellent field position. The Nittany Lions converted a fourth-and-three situation on the Delaware 19 with a four-yard completion from Allar to Harrison Wallace III, setting up a scoring opportunity for Penn State. Allen found the end zone three plays later on a four-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Nittany Lions a 14-0 lead at the 2:16 mark of the opening frame.
Delaware answered with a 66-yard rushing touchdown, cutting the Penn State lead back to seven with 1:05 left in the first quarter.
Singleton scored two more rushing touchdowns in the first half, reaching a career-best three rushing scores in the game before the teams headed to their locker rooms for the break. The sophomore's third touchdown put the Nittany Lions up 28-7 with 4:36 remaining in the opening half.
Penn State scored once more before the end of the half when Allar found Warren in the end zone for a one-yard score with 22 seconds left to play in the second quarter. The touchdown was the culmination of a six-play 49-yard scoring drive that took just 52 seconds off the clock and put the Nittany Lions up 35-7.
The Penn State offense marched down the field and scored on the initial possession of the second half, going up 42-7 with just under ten minutes remaining in the third quarter. Allar scored his first rushing touchdown of the season on a one-yard sneak.
On the very next drive, Ellis forced a fumble that was picked up by Winston Jr. for the Nittany Lions' first takeaway of the season. Pribula then entered the game and drove the Lions down the field and scored on a 6-yard rushing touchdown. With Pribula at the helm, the Nittany Lions went 31 yards in five plays for the score.
The Penn State defense followed up, on the ensuing Delaware drive, with its first touchdown of the 2023 campaign on a DeLuca pick-six with 2:43 left in the third quarter to go up 56-7.
The Nittany Lions scored one more touchdown in the fourth quarter, a four-yard pass from Pribula to Evans, to go up 63-7.
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No. 7 Penn State Tops Delaware
9/9/2023 - bluehens.com
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – The No. 19/19 University of Delaware football team fell to FBS seventh-ranked Penn State 63-7 on Saturday afternoon in front of 108,575 fans at Beaver Stadium. With the setback, the Blue Hens move to 1-1 on the season and currently sit 1-0 in the CAA.
HENS HIGHLIGHTS
Marcus Yarns rushed for 86 yards on six carries and his third touchdown of the season.
Jackson Taylor led the defense with 10 tackles and Nic Ware added nine.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Penn State put together long scoring drives to score on each of its first two possessions to take a 14-0 lead.
The Blue Hens put themselves into a third-and-short situation on their third drive before Yarns went untouched for a 66-yard touchdown run. It was his second scoring run of at least 50 yards in as many weeks.
The Nittany Lions scored three touchdowns in both the second and third quarters as well as one more in the fourth to provide the final score.
UP NEXT
The Blue Hens will return home to Delaware Stadium on Saturday, September 16 for its home opener against Saint Francis. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.
The game against the Red Flash will open a four-game homestand for the Blue & Gold. Season ticket memberships, flexible partial plans and individual game tickets for all six of UD's home games are on sale now.
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How to get tickets to the Penn State vs. Delaware football game (9/9/23)
Sep. 05, 2023 - Pennlive.com
Deb Kiner | dkiner@pennlive.com
The Penn State University Nittany Lions will play the Delaware Blue Hens at noon on Saturday, Sept. 9, 2023, in Beaver Stadium.
Fans packed the stands last week for the season opener against West Virginia, with Penn State winning, 38-15.
Tickets for the Delaware game are cheaper than they were for the WVU game.
If you are still hoping to attend, here are some places to get tickets:
- Ticketmaster, prices start at $30
- SeatGeek, prices start at $25
- StubHub, prices start at $27
- VividSeats, prices start at $28
- MegaSeats, prices start at $34
- Ticket City, prices start at $30
On Sept. 16, Penn State will play its first away game at Illinois.
Future home games are Sept. 23 vs. Iowa, Oct. 14 vs. Massachusetts, Oct. 28 vs. Indiana, Nov. 11 vs. Michigan and Nov. 24 vs. Michigan State.
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GAME NOTES: No. 7(FBS) Penn State vs. Delaware No. 19 (FCS)
9/4/2023 - https://gopsusports.com/
Nittany Lions welcome Blue Hens on Saturday for noon kickoff on Peacock
PENN STATE NOTES
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. - No. 7 Penn State welcomes Delaware to Beaver Stadium on Saturday for a non-conference matchup. Kickoff is set for noon on Peacock.
SERIES HISTORY: Penn State meets Delaware for the first time in program history. Delaware is the Nittany Lions' 163rd different opponent. Penn State is 116-79-12 against current members of the FCS. The Nittany Lions' last matchup against an FCS opponent came against Villanova in 2021, a 38-17 win. Sean Clifford threw for 401 yards and four touchdowns, while Parker Washington had 148 receiving yards and two touchdowns and Jahan Dotson contributed 117 receiving yards and a score.
ALLAR'S FIRST START: In his first career start, Drew Allar completed 21-of-29 passes for 325 yards and three touchdowns against West Virginia. Allar became the first PSU quarterback to throw for at least 300 yards in a season opener since Christian Hackenberg's 454 passing yards against UCF in 2014. Allar is the first PSU quarterback to throw for at least 300 yards in his first career start since Michael Robinson threw for 379 yards vs. Wisconsin in 2003.
BIG PLAY DRE: KeAndre Lambert-Smith hauled in four receptions for 123 yards and a career-high two touchdowns against West Virginia. Lambert-Smith averaged 30.75 yards per reception and had touchdown receptions of 72 and 12 yards. With his 72-yard touchdown reception, on Penn State's opening drive, Lambert-Smith has three career touchdown receptions of 70-plus yards.
FINISHING STRONG: Penn State scored on each of its last four possessions of the game against West Virginia. The Nittany Lions scored on drives of 56, 65, 42 and 46 yards. Drew Allar threw touchdown passes to KeAndre Lambert-Smith (12 yards) and Malik McClain (25), while Beau Pribula ran for a 5-yard score and Alex Felkins converted a 25-yard field goal.
THE OPPOSITION: Delaware earned a 37-13 win over CAA foe Stony Brook last Thursday. The Blue Hens racked up 559 total yards, averaging 7.1 yards per play. Delaware threw for 414 yards. Ryan O'Connor completed 24-of-38 passes for 346 yards and a touchdown. Marcus Yarns rushed for 107 yards and two scores. The Blue Hens forced three takeaways.
SCOUTING THE BLUE HENS
Ryan Carty is in his second season leading the Blue Hens.
A Delaware alum, Carty has a 9-5 record as head coach and led Delaware to an FCS Playoffs second round appearance in 2022.
Carty was the first Delaware head coach to lead the team to the FCS Playoffs in his first season.
Delaware started the season with a 37-13 win at Stony Brook last Thursday.
The Blue Hens are ranked 19th in the Stats Perform FCS Poll and 19th
t in the FCS Coaches Poll.
Delaware finished the 2022 campaign with an 8-5 mark, including a win over Navy. The Blue Hens earned a 56-17 win over Saint Francis in the FCS Playoffs First Round before falling 42-6 at top-seed South Dakota State.
In their season-opening victory at Stony Brook, Delaware posted 559 total yards, averaging 7.1 yards per play.
The Blue Hens gained 414 yards through the air and 145 on the ground.
Ryan O'Connor threw for 346 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions while completing 24-of-38 passes.
Marcus Yarns rushed for 107 yards and two scores on 11 carries. Kyron Cumby added a 13-yard touchdown rush.
Chandler Harvin hauled in five receptions for 100 yards, while Kym Wimberly Jr. made five grabs for 81 yards and a touchdown.
Delaware allowed 327 total yards, including 164 on the ground and 163 through the air.
Delaware forced three interceptions and tallied seven tackles for loss.
Tyron Herring led the unit with eight tackles and an interception, while Dillon Trainer made 1.5 tackles for loss.
Ty Davis had a 50-yard interception return for a touchdown.
PENN STATE VS. FCS
Penn State is 116-79-12 all-time against current FCS teams.
The Nittany Lions have played at least one game against 22 different FCS programs.
Eight of the 22 FCS programs Penn State has played are members of the Ivy League.
Delaware will be Penn State's third opponent who is a current member of the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA), joining Villanova and William & Mary.
WEST VIRGINIA NOTES
Penn State is now 49-9-2 all-time against West Virginia.
The Nittany Lions have won five-straight matchups in the series and 33 of the last 35 contests.
Penn State is now 122-13-1 all-time in home openers, including wins in 20 of the last 22, and 113-22-2 all-time in season openers.
Penn State is now 75-18-2 all-time against the current members of the Big 12.
Penn State welcomed 110,747 fans to Beaver Stadium, marking the fourth-highest crowd in its history and its largest crowd for a home opener.
The Nittany Lions scored on their opening drive of the season for the first time since 2020 at Indiana. QB Drew Allar tossed a 72-yard touchdown pass to WR KeAndre Lambert-Smith.
Allar became the first Penn State quarterback to throw for at least 300 yards in a season opener since Christian Hackenberg's 454 passing yards against UCF in 2014.
Allar is the first Penn State quarterback to throw for at least 300 yards in his first career start since Michael Robinson threw for 379 yards vs. Wisconsin in 2003.
Allar's 300 passing yards and three passing touchdowns marked the 25th time a PSU quarterback has done that in a game.
Lambert Smith's 72-yard touchdown reception was the third 70+ yard reception of his career.
WR Harrison Wallace III recorded a career-high seven receptions and a career-best 72 receiving yards.
The Nittany Lions stopped West Virginia on three fourth-down conversion attempts.
LB Curtis Jacobs finished the game with 10 tackles. He recorded 10+ tackles in a game for the third time in his career.
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Stoney Brook Falls to Delaware in 2023 Season Opener
STONY BROOK, N.Y. - The Stony Brook secondary registered three interceptions, but the Seawolves were unable to overcome three of their own along with a big day from No. 22 Delaware's passing attack, as Stony Brook was defeated 37-13 at LaValle Stadium Thursday night.
Delaware improved to 1-0 on the year and 1-0 in CAA play, while SBU fell to 0-1 overall and in conference matchups.
Redshirt freshman Johnny Martin III led all SBU rushers with 63 yards in the contest, picking up 7.9 yards per carry. Redshirt junior Roland Dempster added 50 yards and one touchdown on the ground, averaging five yards per carry. On the receiving end, Jayce Freeman reeled in five catches for 62 yards to lead Stony Brook. In his first career collegiate start, graduate student Casey Case passed for 163 yards on 14-of-40 passing, throwing three interceptions.
Redshirt junior Nick Chimienti showed out for the Stony Brook defense, collecting two interceptions and adding five tackles. Redshirt freshman Anthony Ferrelli added five tackles, 1.0 tackle for loss, 1.0 sack, and one recovered fumble while Noah Rodriguez had nine tackles and one interception in the loss.
The Seawolves led the ground game 164-145, but Delaware took advantage through the air, with 414 yards compared to 163 for Stony Brook.
For Delaware, Ryan O'Connor passed for 346 yards and a touchdown on 24-for-38 passing. Marcus Yarns ran for 107 yards and a pair of scores while Kyron Cumby added 39 yards and a score on the ground. Chandler Harvin reeled in five catches for 100 yards while Kym Wimberly Jr. also grabbed five for 81 yards and a score.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Delaware opened up a 7-0 lead with a 14-yard touchdown reception.
Stony Brook put points on the scoreboard with 11:59 left in the second quarter to narrow the margin to 7-3 with a Spencer Biscoe field goal.
Delaware finished the half with 10 straight points on a 34-yard field goal followed by a five-yard run from Yarns.
Delaware extended its lead to 24-3 early in the second half, but SBU responded with a touchdown to narrow the gap to 24-10.
Stony Brook got on the scoreboard again with 4:50 left in the third quarter to narrow Delaware's lead to 24-13.
Delaware tacked on 13 points in the fourth quarter to finish off the scoring with a 13-yard rush along with a 50-yard pick-six.
GAME NOTES
A packed-in crowd of 11,132 filled the seats at LaValle Stadium, marking the largest opening-night crowd in stadium history, and the eighth-largest overall.
Chimienti's two interceptions marked the first multi-interception game for an SBU player since Randy Pringle picked off two against Richmond on Oct. 23, 2021.
Stony Brook's four takeaways as a team were the most since registering six against Richmond on Oct. 23, 2021.
SBU won the turnover battle in Thursday's game, forcing four turnovers while coughing the ball up three times, with Stony Brook turning those takeaways into three points.
Stony Brook's defense racked up four sacks and six TFLs in the first half alone.
Rodriguez led SBU with nine tackles, a career high.
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Football Rolls Past Stony Brook 37-13
8/31/2023 - Bluehens.com
STONY BROOK, N.Y. – The University of Delaware football team used a strong first half and then pulled away in the fourth quarter, defeating Stony Brook 37-13 on Thursday night in a CAA matchup to open the 2023 season.
HENS HIGHLIGHTS
Ryan O'Connor finished 24-of-38 passing for 346 yards and a touchdown.
Zach Marker also completed four passes for 68 yards
Marcus Yarns led the rushing attack with 107 yards on 11 carries with two scores
Chandler Harvin caught five passes for 100 yards, while Kym Wimberly also had five catches for 81 yards and a touchdown.
Nine different receivers caught a pass.
Tyron Herring led the defense with eight tackles, while Jackson Taylor added seven.
Herring, Christian Pierce and Ty Davis all had interceptions.
UD outgained Stony Brook 559-327.
HOW IT HAPPENED
The Blue Hens scored first on their second drive of the game. Two deep completions to Harvin and another to Townsend drove them into the red zone before O'Connor found Wimberly for a 14-yard score late in the first quarter.
After a turnover to start the second quarter that set up Stony Brook on the edge of the red zone, the UD defense kept the Seawolves out of the end zone. A field goal made it a 7-3 game with 11:59 on the clock.
Delaware answered quickly as Marker drove the offense down the field and Nate Reed drilled a 34-yard field goal to extend the lead to 10-3 midway through the quarter.
The Blue Hens marched 84 yards down the field in nine plays, capped by a 5-yard scoring rush by Yarns just 35 seconds before halftime. Kyron Cumby kept the drive alive with a 25-yard catch-and-run on third-and-19.
On UD's first possession of the second half, Yarns broke free for a 53-yard touchdown rush to make it a 24-3 game just 2:22 into the third quarter.
Stony Brook responded with 10 points on its next two drives to make it a 24-13 game at the end of the third quarter.
Following an interception by Pierce, UD turned to the ground game as seven-straight runs by Yarns and Kyron Cumby drove the ball down the field. Cumby capped things off with a 13-yard scoring run.
Davis came away with an interception on the next drive, tipping the ball to himself at midfield and returning it 50 yards for the score to provide the final 37-13 score.
GAME NOTES
In his first career start, O'Connor set career highs in both completions and passing yards.
It was the first career 100-yard rushing game for Yarns and the first time he found the end zone twice in a game.
Davis' pick-six was Delaware's first since 2019 when Johnny Buchanan also returned an interception for a score against Stony Brook.
UP NEXT
Delaware will head back out on the road next weekend for a matchup at FBS opponent Penn State. Kickoff in Happy Valley is scheduled for noon and the game will be streamed on
Peacock.
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Football Set for Thursday Season Opener at Stony Brook
8/30/2023 - Bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware football team is set to open the 2023 campaign on Thursday night as it makes the trip to Long Island for a CAA matchup against Stony Brook. Kickoff at the Seawolves' LaValle Stadium is set for 7 p.m. and the game will be broadcast live on FloSports.
HOW TO FOLLOW:Watch | Listen | Live Stats | Delaware Game Notes | Stony Brook Game Notes
ABOUT THE HENS:
The Blue & Gold was picked to finish fourth in the CAA Coaches' Preseason Poll, receiving 149 points overall and one first-place vote.
Three Blue Hens – wide receiver Jourdan Townsend, placekicker Alex Schmoke and punter Ryan Kost - earned spots on the Preseason All-CAA Team. Additionally, tight end Braden Brose, offensive lineman Fintan Brose and defensive lineman Chase McGowan were preseason honorable mention selections.
Delaware returns eight starters, including its three leading rushers and two top receivers, on an offense that averaged 28.2 points per game and 408.8 yards of total offense in 2022.
McGowan and safety Ty Davis are the lone starters returning to UD's defense that led the CAA in several categories last year including scoring defense (18.2 ppg) and total defense (282.3 ypg).
There are plenty of new faces to learn this year as the Blue Hens have welcomed 45 newcomers to the roster including 24 freshmen as members of the UD Class of 2027 as well as 21 transfers from other institutions.
ABOUT THE SEAWOLVES:
Stony Brook went 2-9 last season, finishing with a 1-7 mark in CAA play. The Seawolves were picked to finish 14th in the conference this season in the preseason coaches poll,
Daron Bryden appeared in nine games at quarterback last year, completing 79-of-161 passes for seven touchdowns and eight interceptions. Stony Brook will have Case Case, a transfer from Buffalo, under center.
Last season's leading rusher, Ross Tallarico, returns after leading the squad with 54.7 rush yards per game and four touchdowns on the ground.
Aidan Kaler is Stony Brook's leading returning tackler, ranking third on the defense in 2022 with 60 tackles.
The Seawolves were last in the CAA in scoring (15.1 ppg) and total offense (281.0 ypg) while the defense allowed 32.3 ppg and 389.7 ypg including 251.3 yards through the air.
SERIES HISTORY:
Thursday will be just the seventh meeting between the two programs, all of which have come since 2016.
The Blue Hens and Seawolves met each season from 2016 to 2021, splitting each of the first six games.
Delaware dropped the most recent meeting between the two squads, a 34-17 decision on the road in 2021. Thyrick Pitts had 115 receiving yards and caught two touchdown passes from Zach Gwynn.
In UD's last win, a 31-3 victory at Delaware Stadium during the spring 2020-21 season, Nolan Henderson threw for 215 yards and three touchdowns. Mateo Vandamia, now a linebacker for the Blue Hens, had two touchdown catches as a tight end and Pitts also had a scoring grab.
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Football Alum Matt Nagy Makes Major Gift to Delaware Athletics
8/28/2023 - Bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – One of the winningest quarterbacks in the record books and a 2021 inductee into the Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame, Matt Nagy has already left his mark on the Blue Hen football program. Now, more than 20 years since he was carving up defenses in the Blue & Gold, the generosity of Nagy and his wife Stacey continues to cement his legacy at the University of Delaware.
"The University of Delaware and our football program care about both the student and the athlete," Nagy said. "That was very important to me. I was fortunate to build great relationships with so many teammates, coaches, and professors that have really helped my career, both on and off the field."
The Nagy family has made a gift to the future of UD Athletics to support an upcoming facilities project, of which details will be announced at a later date.
"We are so proUD of Matt for everything he's done in his career and the role model he is for our student-athletes," Director of Athletics, Community, and Campus Recreation Chrissi Rawak said. "The Nagy's generosity and investment is something that I'm forever grateful for as we continue to provide an exceptional experience for our Blue Hens."
Nagy, who is currently the offensive coordinator for the Kansas City Chiefs, led the Blue Hens to a 38-12 record from 1997-2000 with two NCAA playoff appearances, including advancing to the national semifinals in 2000. Playing under Hall of Fame coach Tubby Raymond, Nagy had a breakout senior season earning Third Team All-America honors when he passed for then-Delaware records of 3,436 yards and 29 touchdowns. He set the program career standard for completions (502), and his marks for career passing yards (8,214), and touchdowns (58), are still tops among the UD records. His 556 yards passing vs. Connecticut in 1998 remains a UD record.
"UD was one of two schools that believed in me enough to offer me a full athletic scholarship in 1996. That meant the world to me and my family. Stacey has been my best teammate since that scholarship offer. We love the direction and vision that Chrissi Rawak, Coach Carty, and the rest of the coaches have for the future of UD athletics. This is a very exciting time to be a Blue Hen!"
The Manheim, Pennsylvania native would go on to enjoy a stellar six-year playing career in the Arena Football League, suiting up for four different organizations. During his career, Nagy completed 65.5 percent of his passes for 18,866 yards, 374 touchdowns and a 115.1 quarterback rating.
He retired from playing following the 2008 season and joined fellow Blue Hen and former teammate Brett Veach with the Philadelphia Eagles as a coaching intern. He spent 10 years coaching alongside Andy Reid in both Philadelphia and Kansas City before being hired as the head coach of the Chicago Bears ahead of the 2018 season, becoming the first Blue Hen to rise to that rank.
"My time at Delaware taught me that everything is earned and never given. Competition and adversity are inevitable. It's how you respond to both."
Nagy's Bears went 12-4 and won the NFC North in his first season in Chicago as he earned AP Coach of the Year honors. After four years and a 34-31 head coaching record, Nagy rejoined Reid's staff in Kansas City in 2022 and hoisted the Lombardi Trophy when the Chiefs won Super Bowl LVII.
"Words cannot express how grateful we are for the generosity of the Nagy family," said Head Football Coach Ryan Carty. "This gift just confirms the type of person that Matt is. Delaware fans will remember his many accomplishments on the field, but it is his remarkable character that makes him a legend in the Blue & Gold. We are truly blessed to have amazing alums like Matt who are reinvesting into this program and Delaware Athletics."
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Answers to a few questions as Delaware football opener at Stony Brook looms:
https://www.delawareonline.com/
- 8/25/23
Preseason practice is over, with one Blue Hen player loudly expressing his delight to soon tangle with players in different colored jerseys at the outset of one recent session.
Those outfits will likely be red and belong to Stony Brook when Delaware opens the 2023 season Thursday at 7 p.m. on Long Island.
It’s Delaware’s second season under coach Ryan Carty, the former UD back-up quarterback who hopes to improve on last year’s 8-5 season that ended in the FCS playoffs round-of-16.
Considering the numerous veteran players from that squad are no longer here, it will be a challenge. But Carty, his roster bolstered by freshmen and transfer-portal additions, is confident.
“There was a lot of experience and production that left our program,” he said. “Whether or not we’ve replaced it, we’ll find out on Thursday.
“I think there’s certainly 108 capable players in our room to have the similar success, if not more than we had last year, and we just have to put it together.”
Questions about the Blue Hens will begin to be answered Thursday. Here are a few final preseason queries:
How will Delaware do this year?
It’s been 13 years since Delaware won more than seven regular-season games. For a program that won at least eight in 27 of the 43 seasons from 1968 to 2010, that’s quite a drought.
How Ryan O’Connor and Zach Marker, who will each see action at quarterback, perform and how quickly a rebuilt defense comes together will determine if Delaware can meet its annual goal of making the FCS playoffs for just the fourth time since 2010.
“If you’ve got 11 hats going toward the ball and running hard and playing fast, you got a shot,” Carty said of that defense as long as its alignments, adjustments and communications are in synch.
VENUE REVIEW:Delaware Stadium among top places to watch FCS football
In Stony Brook, Delaware has a potentially difficult opening-night test – despite the Seawolves’ uncharacteristic 2-9 finish last year – and can ill afford a setback.
The Blue Hens were pegged to place fourth in what’s now a 15-team CAA. That would be a worthy accomplishment. Excluding their 2021 spring CAA championship in a limited schedule, Delaware hasn’t done better than 5-3 in league games the past 11 years. Its best finish was a third-place tie in 2018.
Seven wins put Delaware in the FCS playoffs the last two times it made the fall bracket (2018 and 2022), though eight is a much clearer guarantee. That seems entirely possible. It’ll come down to the Hens’ three November games, all of which appear difficult now – home against Elon Nov. 4, at Campbell Nov. 11 and home against troublesome Villanova Nov. 18.
What is Delaware’s best position area?
Delaware has wide receivers who may have a hard time getting on the field but could probably start for some of their opponents.
The competition at that position, with 16 players, has been fierce. There was one recent drill during which quarterbacks were throwing long passes to receivers running downfield and every one was caught, including some that appeared difficult.
Carty’s offense is pass-oriented, though the running game still matters greatly, and depends on receivers getting open in space, catching the football and eluding pursuers.
Delaware’s depth at the position should allow a nuanced approach in which plays can be run to fit the personnel on the field. This appears to be an expansive playbook that will keep defenses guessing, often the key to moving it downfield.
Where must Delaware be better?
Delaware was fourth in the CAA last season in total offense, getting 408.7 yards per game, and ranked third with 48 touchdowns. But as the field got smaller Delaware’s efficiency frequently waned.
The Blue Hens finished 113th among the 123 FCS teams nationally in red-zone offense, scoring on 66.7 percent of their forays inside the 20.
Kicking troubles played a role, and transfers Nate Reed and Alex Schmoke should remedy that. But Delaware’s offense sometimes also failed to make the plays it needed to, with the Richmond loss being the primary example.
The Hens have to be better this year at capitalizing on the opportunities it will most certainly earn.
Where will Delaware be better?
Only two CAA teams gave up more than Delaware’s 29 sacks last year. That number must – and should – come way down considering the experience the starting offensive line possesses.
That group consists of center Brock Gingrich, guards Bradly Anyanwu and Patrick Shupp and tackles Fintan Brose and Blaise Sparks, with several able-bodied reserves.
How must Delaware be its old self on defense?
Last season Delaware tied for 21st in FCS with 22 takeaways. The Hens' knack for forcing turnovers must continue.
Who is Delaware’s best pro prospect?
Jackson Taylor didn’t have the necessary academic record to play Division I football coming out of Abington (Pa.) High despite some interest. He rectified that by doing very well and graduating from West Chester while also becoming a top Division II football player.
The linebacker was a two-time PSAC East Defensive Player of the Year and a 2022 second-team All-American while being a busy tackler and forcer of turnovers.
That talent now lurks in the Delaware defense, which was one of the best in FCS the last three seasons but has lost nearly all the contributors to that success. Taylor’s addition will allow that unit to maintain a measure of its ferocity and perhaps earn him a chance to continue his football career.
“I certainly think he’ll have a shot at the next level,” Carty said. “But, obviously, same thing I would tell him if he was sitting next to me: He’s got to go do it at our level first.”
Who is a newcomer to watch on defense?
There are plenty of candidates here, including the aforementioned Taylor. But noseguard Keyshawn Hunter, the Old Dominion transfer, looks to be a particularly reliable and impactful addition and has also become a key leader.
The Washington, D.C., resident said his mindset will include being “fast off the ball, dominant at the point of attack, [having] a relentless motor and you gotta keep your feet going.”
Who is a newcomer to watch on offense?
This is also a crowded field, especially with the additions at wide receiver. One of them, Joshua Youngblood, formerly of both Kansas State and Rutgers, seems particularly poised – or at least has the potential – to have a dynamic season.
What freshman could make an impact?
Several freshmen will see duty on defense, but safety K.T. Seay has gotten snaps with the first string and buoys a position that graduated All-American Kedrick Whitehead and saw All-CAA smacker Noah Plack move to UConn.
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(Blue Hen) Football Slots in at No. 21 in AFCA Coaches’ Preseason Poll
8/14/2023 - BLUEHENS.COM
No. 21 in the AFCA FCS Coaches' Top 25 Poll. It is UD's third preseason ranking of the offseason as the Blue Hens also are ranked No. 22 in the Stats Perform FCS Preseason Top 25 Poll and No. 25 in the Athlon Sports' FCS Preseason Top 25.
Delaware went 8-5 a year ago and advanced to the second round of the FCS playoffs. Leading rusher Kyron Cumby and top receiver Jourdan Townsend highlight a group of seven starters back offensively. The Blue Hens face the task of replacing nine starters on defense, but All-CAA defensive end Chase McGowan returns.
The Blue Hens open the 2023 season on Thursday, August 31 with a CAA road matchup at Stony Brook. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.
(Blue Hen) Football Ranked 22nd Overall in Stats Perform FCS Preseason Top 25 Poll.
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Football Has Five Named To The Bluebloods 2023 Preseason CAA All-Conference Team
8/3/2023 - bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del - Jourdan Townsend, Ryan Kost , and Alex Schmoke all received First-Team The Bluebloods Preseason CAA All-Conference honors, while Chandler Harvin and Chase McGowan received Second-Team honors.
Townsend, Kost, and Schmoke have already been named to the CAA Preseason All-Conference Team, as voted on by the conference's head coaches, and Phil Steete/Draft Scout Preseason All-CAA honors earlier this summer. Kost was also named to The Bluebloods and Phil Steete/Draft Scout Preseason FCS All-American Teams while Schmoke received Phil Steete/Draft Scout Preseason All-American honors. Harvin and McGowan were also named to the Phil Steete/Draft Scout Preseason CAA All-Conference team. McGowan was also a preseason honorable mention selection by the CAA head coaches.
Townsend picked up a First-Team selection from The Bluebloods after coming off a season that saw him record 61 receptions for 698 yards and six touchdowns, earning All-CAA Second-Team. Entering the season, Townsend has 91 career receptions for 1,001 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Kost, a transfer from Monmouth, was a First Team All-CAA Punter in 2022 and averaged 48.1 yards per punt to lead the CAA and FCS. He had a career-long 71-yard punt against Rhode Island on Oct. 22. Kost also earned First-Team All-Big South honors in 2021 and was a First-Team All-ECAC selection. During the 2020-2021 year, he was a Second-Team All-Big South selection.
Schmoke joins the Blue Hens from Saint Francis, where he was a two-time All-NEC First-Team selection as a placekicker and a HERO Sports FCS Freshman All-American in 2021. For his career, Schmoke went 33-39 in field goal attempts, making a career-long of 50 on Oct. 15, 2022 against LIU. He is also 73-79 on PAT attempts for his career, converting on 25-27 in 2021 and 48-52 in 2022. He ranks third in all of FCS in active career field goal percentage at 84.6 percent.
Harvin was a Second-Team selection. Entering his second season after transferring from Sam Houston, Harvin started in seven games in 2022 and finished with 39 catches for 615 yards and seven touchdowns. He had four catches for 128 yards and three touchdowns in Delaware's FCS Championship First Round win against Saint Francis, becoming the eighth player in UD history with three touchdown catches in one game.
McGowan received Second-Team honors. McGowan was named All-CAA Third-Team after recording 30 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks last season. He also earned Third-Team All-CAA honors in 2022 and Second-Team All-CAA honors in 2020-2021.
The Blue & Gold will open the 2023 season on Thursday, August 31 at Stoney Brook.
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Townsend, Schmoke, Kost Named To CAA Preseason All-Conference Team
7/25/2023 Bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. - Jourdan Townsend and newcomers Alex Schmoke and Ryan Kost were named to the 2023 CAA Football Preseason All-Conference Team, selected by the conference's head coaches, as announced on Tuesday.
Townsend is coming off a year that saw him record 61 receptions for 698 yards and six touchdowns and was named All-CAA Second-Team. He had seven catches for 109 yards in a road-win over Rhode Island, and scored a touchdown on eight receptions for 91 yards against William & Mary. Entering the season, Townsend has 91 career receptions for 1,001 yards and 11 touchdowns. He also earned All-CAA Second-Team honors in 2021.
Schmoke joins the Blue Hens from Saint Francis, where he was a two-time All-NEC First-Team selection as a placekicker and a HERO Sports FCS Freshman All-American in 2021. For his career, Schmoke went 33-39 in field goal attempts, making a career-long of 50 on Oct. 15, 2022 against LIU. He is also 73-79 on PAT attempts for his career, converting on 25-27 in 2021 and 48-52 in 2022. He ranks third in all of FCS in active career field goal percentage at 84.6 percent.
Kost, a transfer from Monmouth, was named to The Bluebloods 2023 FCS Preseason All-American Team earlier this summer. He was a First Team All-CAA Punter in 2022, while also being named Phil Steele/DraftScout FCS Postseason All-America Second-Team Punter and All-ECAC Special Teams Punter. Kost also received HERO Sports FCS Preseason All-America Third Team, STATS Perform Preseason All-America Third Team, and CAA Preseason All-Conference Honorable Mention recognition. He averaged 48.1 yards per punt to lead the CAA and FCS. He had a career-long 71-yard punt against Rhode Island on Oct. 22. Kost also earned First-Team All-Big South honors in 2021 and was a First-Team All-ECAC selection. During the 2020-2021 year, he was a Second-Team All-Big South selection.
Braden Brose, Fintan Brose, and Chase McGowan received preseason honorable mention. Braden caught four touchdowns last season and had 16 receptions for 176 yards as a tight end, while Fintan was an All-CAA Third-Team selection after appearing in 13 games and starting in 12 of them as an offensive lineman. McGowan was an All-CAA Third-Team selection after recording 30 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks last season. He also earned Third-Team All-CAA honors in 2022 and Second-Team All-CAA honors in 2020-2021. Delaware was picked to finish fourth with 149 points and received one first-place vote.
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Armstrong Joins Football Staff as Associate AD, Football Operations
7/14/2023 bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – With over a decade of experience in football operations, Michael Armstrong joins the University of Delaware football staff as Associate AD, Football Operations, head coach Ryan Carty announced Friday.
"I'm excited to welcome Michael to Newark," Carty said. "With over a decade of experience in the field, he will help elevate the operations wing of our program."
Armstrong arrives to Delaware after spending the past two years at the Universiy of St. Thomas, where he was the Director of Football and Recruiting Operations during the Tommies' unprecedented jump from Division III to Division I.
"I'm thrilled to join the Delaware staff," Armstrong said. "One of the best FCS programs in the nation, I value joining a program with such rich history. It's an added benefit to get back to the east coast and be closer to my family."
His various responsibilities included assisting with branding projects, initiating a multi-year partnership between Teamworks and St. Thomas, and team travel arrangements, among other operations assignments.
Before St. Thomas, Armstrong was the Director of Football Operations / Recruiting at Grambling State University from 2016-2021. He was responsible for varius duties in operations, video, recruiting, and as a liaison for professional player opportunities.
Armstrong was a part of the staff at Ave Maria University in Naples, Fla. from 2012-15. He held numerous positions during his tenure, including defensive line coach, secondary coach, tight ends coach, video coordinator, recruiting coordinator and director of football operations. He helped guide Ave Maria to the NAIA Independent conference championship during the 2013 season with a 9-2 overall record.
Armstrong graduated with a bachelor's degree in sport management from Chowan University in 2010 and received his master's degree in sport administration from Grambling State in 2020.
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Ex-Penn State football player booted from Delaware
Jun. 14th, 2023 - https://www.mlive.com/
By Brian Linder | blinder@pennlive.com
Former Mechanicsburg High School, Penn State and Delaware football player Joseph Bruno told PennLive that Delaware pulled his scholarship last fall after it said he violated an agreement that outlined his responsibilities regarding rehabilitation from an
injury. Mark Pynes | mpynes@pennlive.com
When Joseph Bruno transferred from Penn State to Delaware, it seemed like a match made in college football heaven.
The Blue Hens were getting a running back with a special mix of speed and grit, who accomplished something rare — playing for the Nittany Lions as a freshman walk-on.
After Bruno was kicked off of the University of Delaware football team, he said he’s left with no team,
and few answers.
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Football Adds Five Transfers
6/13/2023 - bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – University of Delaware football Head Coach Ryan Carty has announced that five transfers have joined the program ahead of the upcoming 2023 season. The five newcomers include two defensive backs, one wide receiver, one linebacker and one defensive lineman.
With the addition of the five transfers, the Blue Hens are now bringing in 33 newcomers as the program added 16 student-athletes in December and 12 more in February. The 33 newcomers include 15 members of the University of Delaware Class of 2027 as well as 18 transfers. The group consists of 10 offensive players, 18 defensive players and five specialists.
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Kickoff at Penn State Set for 3:30 P.M.
5/31/2023 - BLUEHENS.COM
The start time for the University of Delaware football team's road game at Penn State on Saturday, September 9 has officially been set. The Blue Hens and Nittany Lions will kick off at
Noon in Penn State's Beaver Stadium. The game will stream live nationally on Peacock.
It will be the first meeting between the two programs and UD's second game at a Big 10 school in the past three years. The Blue & Gold are 16-18 all-time in games against FBS opponents, which is the third-most wins by any FCS program, and is coming off a 14-7 win at Navy in the 2022 season opener.
Fans can buy single-game tickets, season tickets or partial plan packages. Season ticket members receive price savings over singles games, early access to purchase tickets to Penn State, invitations to member events and more!
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Henderson, Pitts Sign NFL Contracts
5/1/2023 - bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware's footprint in the NFL grew this past weekend as a pair of recent graduates have earned the opportunity to continue their dreams of playing in the NFL. Quarterback Nolan Henderson and wide receiver Thyrick Pitts both signed undrafted free agent (UDFA) contracts with the Baltimore Ravens and Chicago Bears, respectively, following the conclusion of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Henderson had a remarkable final season in the Blue & Gold, earning All-CAA honors for the second time in his career. The Smyrna, Delaware native set the UD record with 32 passing touchdowns in 2-22 and also became the second in program history to surpass 50 career touchdowns, finishing with 56. He twice threw for five touchdowns in a game (Hampton, Monmouth) to become the first UD quarterback to accomplish the feat multiple times. He was twice named the CAA Offensive Player of the Week and earned National Offensive Player of the Week honors after passing for 379 yards and four touchdowns in a 42-21 victory at Rhode Island. Henderson finished his Delaware career ranked third in program history in completions (547), fourth in pass attempts (859) and fifth in passing yards (6,413).
Pitts was an All-CAA Third Team selection, his third-straight all-conference honor, following the 2022 season when he ranked second on the Blue Hens with 57 catches for 631 yards and tied for the CAA lead with 10 touchdown catches. He surpassed the 2,000-career receiving yards milestone in September against Hampton, a game in which he caught three touchdown passes, becoming the first Blue Hen since 2013 to accomplish the feat. Pitts finished his UD career ranked among the top 10 in several career statistics including receptions (172), receiving yards (2,429) and touchdown catches (23). In Delaware's playoff game at South Dakota State, Pitts set the program record with a catch in 43-consecutive games, dating back to the 2019 season opener.
The two Blue Hens join several others who are currently in the NFL. Troy Reeder recently signed a free agent contract with the Minnesota Vikings, while Bilal Nichols is entering his second year with the Las Vegas Raiders. Additionally, Joe Fortunato is on a futures contract with the Arizona Cardinals while Joe Flacco, Nick Boyle and Zach Kerr are all currently free agents. The Kansas City Chiefs have three Blue Hens on staff in Brett Veach (general manager), Matt Nagy (offensive coordinator) and Joe Bleymaier (assistant coach) while Patrick Callaway is a scout with the Tennessee Titans.
Tickets for the 2023 football season are on sale now and can be purchased HERE. Fans can buy single-game tickets, season tickets or partial plan packages. Season ticket members receive price savings over singles games, early access to purchase tickets to Penn State, invitations to member events and more!
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Blue-White Spring Game Provides Plenty of Excitement
4/24/2023 - bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware football team wrapped up its spring season on Friday evening with the annual Blue-White Spring Game. In front of a strong contingent of UD faithful, the Blue Hens put on a great show of what to expect during the upcoming 2023 season.
"I think we really focused in on the details and focused on our attention to detail and making sure we had intention every time we went out to the practice field this year," said Head Coach Ryan Carty. "I think it started to show as the progression of spring came along and culminated with today which was energetic. I thought we played hard out there on both sides of the ball. I think there were good things on both sides of the ball and I think there were bad things on both sides of the ball."
The evening started with a fun meet and greet in the Whitney Athletic Center where fans had the opportunity to meet with several Delaware alums. The list of attending alumni included former All-Americans, current and former NFL players and Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame members.
The on-field action featured Delaware's offense against the defense. Quarterbacks Ryan O'Connor and Zach Marker completed several long passes downfield to multiple receivers to display the diversity of talent on the offense. O'Connor hooked up with Kym Wimberly for a 24-yard, highlight-reel touchdown catch and Marker connected with Matt Carlino for a scoring pass of his own.
The Blue Hens featured multiple explosive runs out of the backfield with Marcus Yarns and Jo'Nathan Silver breaking tackles for long gains. Silver found the end zone on long runs of 18 and 28 yards.
Delaware's special teams were also on display as Nate Reed was a perfect 4-for-4 on field goal attempts.
Defensively, Jared Duncan had a strong game in the secondary with a pass breakup in the end zone and multiple big hits to keep the offense from big gains. Christian Pierce also had a breakup on a deep pass attempt while the duos of Jackson Taylor and Jack Hall, as well as Steven Rose Jr. and Alex Villas combined for tackles in the backfield.
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Blue-White Spring Game Set for Friday Night
4/18/2023 - bluhens.com
NEWARK, Del. – It's finally Game Week! The University of Delaware football team is set to host the annual Blue-White Spring Game on Friday evening and showcase a glimpse of what fans can expect to see from the Blue Hens in 2023.
Fans will have a special pregame opportunity as select football alumni will be available for an informal meet and greet inside the stadium club from 5-6 p.m. Appetizers will be available on a first come, first serve basis and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase. The list of attending alumni will include former All-Americans, current and former NFL players and Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame members
Season Ticket Member T-Shirt Pickup will be in the Sparks Suite of the Whitney Athletic Center. The Sparks Suite can be accessed through the stadium club entrance in the concourse.
Date: Friday, April 21
Time: Gates open at 5 p.m. The on-field action will get underway at 6 p.m. at Delaware Stadium.
Parking: Parking will be available for free in front of the Whitney Athletic Center
Tickets: The spring game is free with all seating being general admission
Gates: The Spartin Family Gate, located at the southeast corner of the stadium, will be the only point of entrance
Participating Alumni:
Nick Boyle
Scott Brunner
Omar Cuff
Pat Devlin
Jamin Elliott
Gino Gradkowski
Dorrell Green
…and others
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Football Positional Preview: Quarterbacks
4/17/2023 - bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware football team is just a few days away from taking the field at Delaware Stadium for the annual Blue-White Spring Game on April 21. Throughout the spring season, Bluehens.com will be taking an in-depth look at each of the team's position groups, with this edition featuring the quarterbacks.
Delaware will begin a new chapter at the quarterback position in 2023 with the graduation of Nolan Henderson who started a total of 34 games over the past four seasons. The Blue Hens have three quarterbacks currently battling in spring practices as the offense looks for a new leader.
"There is nothing better than live reps for young quarterbacks," said quarterbacks coach Sean Goldrich. "Being able to transition what we learn in the film room to on the field is how we truly get better. Every rep builds confidence and with only a few quarterbacks on the roster, our guys are getting a ton of opportunities to improve."
Ryan O'Connor saw action in four games last season as a sophomore. He completed 15-of-27 attempts for 170 yards and a touchdown while also rushing 15 times for 22 yards. He got valuable playing time in the FCS Playoffs, completing one pass for 37 yards in the first-round victory over Saint Francis (Pa.) before playing the majority of the second-round game at South Dakota State where he finished 10-of-21 for 104 yards.
Zach Marker enters his first season in the Blue & Gold after transferring in from Iowa Central Community College. In his three seasons there, Marker appeared in 20 games, completing 121-of-204 passes for 1,597 yards and 26 touchdowns while also rushing for 665 yards and six scores.
"Both quarterbacks have been very impressive so far," Goldrich said. "They both have done a great job operating the offense at a high level. It's been a close battle. They love to compete and bring great energy to practice. We have seen significant improvement from both of them and they continue to make each other better."
Noah Sanders is also seeing plenty of reps in his first spring practice and will look to climb the depth chart in his second season. Additionally, Daniel Lipovski and Nick Minicucci will both join the program this summer as incoming freshmen.
"Noah has done a good job this spring and continues to improve every day," said Goldrich. "He is motivated to be a guy that can help us win. It's been great to see him show up every day and go to work."
The Blue Hens finished the 2022 season, the first of the Ryan Carty era, with an 8-5 overall record and advanced to the second round of the FCS Championship. Delaware will open the 2023 season on Thursday, August 31 at Stony Brook.
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(Former Blue Hen) Nasir Adderley Makes Major Gift to Delaware Athletics
4/7/2023- Bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – Nasir Adderley continues to add to his list of achievements at the University of Delaware. Already known for his incredible accomplishments on the field at Delaware Stadium, as both a two-time All-American and three-time All-CAA selection, and in the NFL with the Los Angeles Chargers, Adderley can now add generous philanthropist to his legacy.
“From the moment I was recruited, I instantly saw a support system who valued me,” Adderley said. “Valued me for who I am and not what I can do for them. I saw a program committed to winning games, but more importantly invested in winning the game of life. Truly prioritizing our development as young men, which I believe is way more valuable than any stat or victory. Not only was this support available as a student, but long after I left the university.”
The Adderley family has made a gift to the future of UD Athletics to support an upcoming facilities project, of which details will be announced at a later date. He becomes the youngest former student-athlete to make a major gift to Delaware Athletics.
“This generous gift by Nasir, especially so soon after graduating, speaks volumes about his character and his love for the University of Delaware,” said Chrissi Rawak, UD Director of Athletics, Community and Campus Recreation. “For him to make such a gift like this demonstrates his commitment to the football program and what we are trying to accomplish as an athletic department. We are so grateful for his generosity and I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for him and his family.”
“Throughout the years, it was always in my plans to support the community that means so much to me,” Adderley said. “I missed out on the first opportunity, but when you have great leadership the opportunities are constantly evolving. Constantly improving the experience and providing resources needed to thrive both on and off the field. I patiently waited and sure enough there was a project available. What is being done for the athletes is second to none and I can’t wait to see the results.”
The second-highest draft pick ever out of the University of Delaware, Adderley was selected in the second round, 60th overall by the Los Angeles Chargers in 2019. He appeared in 50 games over his four seasons, making 44 starts at safety, while totaling 232 tackles, 12 passes defended, four tackles for loss and three interceptions.
The Philadelphia native was a four-year starter for the Blue Hens, becoming the first player in over 10 years to start every game of his career at Delaware. He racked up 264 total tackles to rank among the top-five in defensive backs in program history in that category. He also added 11 INTs and 24 pass break ups in his career. In each of his final three seasons, Adderley led or tied for the team lead in interceptions, including a career-best five picks as a junior in 2017. He finished with a career-high 87 tackles in 2018, which ranked in the top 20 nationally for defensive backs.
Among his many outstanding moments while wearing the Blue & Gold, Adderley had two plays that went viral on a national level. His one-handed leaping interception against Towson in 2017 and 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown at New Hampshire in 2018 both landed as the No. 1 play on SportsCenter Top Ten.
“We are extremely grateful for the generosity of the Adderley family,” said Head Football Coach Ryan Carty. “As a fellow alum, I am so proud of everything that Nasir has achieved, both during his time here at Delaware and in his four years in the NFL. On and off the field, he embodies the type of character we are working to build in our program. So many of our student-athletes look up to Nasir for his accomplishments in football and I hope they continue to follow his example in his post-football career.”
Adderley announced his retirement from the NFL earlier last month and will now utilize his experience to empower the people around him. During his tenure at UD, Nasir earned a degree in health behavior science and will be putting it to good use.
“Newly retired from football, I will be devoting my time to education that can provide my people with freedom. Primarily freedom from sickness in the body and freedom from a lack of financial education. Focusing on those items has changed my life and my hope is to make a difference so others can experience that vitality. I’m sure everyone would like to know what I’m doing for income after turning down a second contract. I have multiple businesses I will be a part of, but will specialize in private lending for real estate investors.”
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2023 Football Game Times Announced
03/22/2023 - BLUEHENS.COM
NEWARK, Del. – The University of Delaware athletic department, in conjunction with the CAA, has announced the kickoff times for the upcoming 2023 football season. Fans will have six opportunities to catch the Blue Hens in action at Delaware Stadium, including matchups against four CAA opponents.
The Blue & Gold will begin the campaign with a pair of road games, starting with a 7 p.m. contest at Stony Brook on Thursday, August 31. The kickoff time for Delaware's game at Penn State will be determined at a later date.
The first opportunity to see the Blue Hens at Delaware Stadium will be on Saturday, September 16 as Saint Francis (Pa.) will make the trip to Newark for the third-straight season. Kickoff for the home opener is set for 6 p.m. It will also be a rematch of last season's FCS Championship First Round game, a 56-17 Delaware victory.
Three more home games will follow as the Blue Hens will play four-consecutive games in the friendly confines of Delaware Stadium. New Hampshire will visit Newark for the first time since 2019 on September 23 for a 6 p.m. contest before UD steps back out of CAA play to host Duquesne on October 7. Kickoff for the Parents & Family Weekend matchup is set for 3 p.m. The homestand will conclude with Delaware's Homecoming Game against North Carolina A&T on October 14 at 3 p.m.
The Blue Hens will hit the road for a pair of CAA contests at Hampton (Oct. 21, 2 p.m.) and Towson (Oct. 28, 4 p.m.) before returning home to host Elon on November 4 in a game that is set to kick off at 1 p.m.
The final road game of the regular season will take UD to Campbell for a 1 p.m. start on November 11. The annual Battle of the Blue returns to Delaware Stadium on November 18 when the Blue Hens host Villanova in a 1 p.m. contest.
2023 Delaware Football Schedule:
Aug. 31 at Stony Brook * 7 p.m.
Sep. 9 at Penn State TBD
Sep. 16 Saint Francis (Pa.) 6 p.m.
Sep. 23 New Hampshire * 6 p.m.
Oct. 7 Duquesne 3 p.m.
Oct. 14 North Carolina A&T * 3 p.m.
Oct. 21 at Hampton * 2 p.m.
Oct. 28 at Towson * 4 p.m.
Nov. 4 Elon * 1 p.m.
Nov. 11 at Campbell * 1 p.m.
Nov. 18 Villanova * 1 p.m.
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Delaware Announces Dates for Football Spring Game, Fandemonium
03/8/2023 - Bluehenfootball.com
NEWARK, Del. – Fans of Delaware Athletics will want to pencil in the weekend of April 21-22 as the University of Delaware Athletics Department has announced the dates for the 2023 Delaware Football Spring Game and Fandemonium.
The annual Blue-White Spring Game will get underway on Friday, April 21 at 6 p.m., with the gates to Delaware Stadium opening at 5 p.m. Parking and admission to the spring game is free to the public and all seating is general admission. The Whitney Athletic Center Stadium Club will be open to all guests and will include a cash bar along with free appetizers on a first come first serve basis.
Fans will have a special pregame opportunity as select football alumni will be available for an informal meet and greet inside the stadium club. The list of attending alumni will include former All-Americans, current and former NFL players and Delaware Athletics Hall of Fame members. A list of attendees will be communicated at a later date.
On Saturday, April 22, Delaware fans of all ages are invited to come out and enjoy a fun-filled day with the Blue Hens. The Delaware Athletics Department will host Fandemonium from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the grass lot in front of the Whitney Athletic Center with free games, rides, inflatable interactives for all ages, music, food, giveaways, and more. Fans can also watch the Blue Hens in action as the men's lacrosse team will take on Drexel at 12 p.m. and the softball program will host Towson in a doubleheader starting at 12 p.m.
The football program spring practice on Saturday, March 11. Fans can follow along through the program's social media accounts for behind-the-scenes content as well as on Bluehens.com for positional previews and other features.
Follow the Blue Hens on Twitter @Delaware_FB and Instagram @delaware_fb, and like "Delaware Football" on Facebook.
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Blue Hens Add 12 on National Signing Day
02/1/2023 - Bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. – Head Coach Ryan Carty and the University of Delaware football team welcomed in 12 more newcomers to the program on Wednesday as part of National Signing Day. The 12 newcomers, which include two incoming freshmen and 10 transfers, bring Delaware’s signing class total to 28. The Blue Hens previously announced the addition of 16 newcomers in December.
Overall, the Blue Hens are bringing in 15 members of the University of Delaware Class of 2027 as well as 13 transfers. The 28 student-athletes consist of nine offensive players, 14 defensive players and five specialists. The 2023 signing class includes 10 student-athletes that were labeled two- or three-star recruits out of high school by major recruiting outlets. The class combined to win four state championships and 13 other championships during their high school careers and, of the 28 signees, 15 served as team captains in high school.
2023 Full Signing Class
Name Pos. Hometown / High School (Previous School)
Keeno Arrington DB Pittsburgh, Pa. / Lincoln Park Performing Arts (Lackawanna)
JoJo Bermudez WR Egg Harbor City, N.J. / Cedar Creek (Cincinnati)
Anthony Caccese OL Reading, Pa. / Exeter Township
Kshawn Cox DB Bridgeville, Del. / Wise [Md.]
Anthony Crenshaw DB Arlington, Texas / James Martin
Nyair Domnie DB Jersey City, N.J. / DePaul Catholic
Tyron Herring DB Delray Beach, Fla. / Deerfield Beach (Dartmouth)
Keyshawn Hunter DL Washington, D.C. / H.D. Woodson (Old Dominion)
Ja'Carree Kelly WR Gainesville, Fla. / Buchholz
Ryan Kost P Newtown, Conn. / Newtown (Monmouth)
Daniel Lipovski QB Burke, Va. / Lake Braddock
Hasson Manning DB Newark, N.J. / Hudson Catholic
Zach Marker QB Norwalk, Iowa / Norwalk (Iowa Central)
Amin Mimouni DL Bayonne, N.J. / Bayonne (Independence)
Nick Minicucci QB Midland Park, N.J. / Don Bosco
Gavin Moul LB Bethel Park, Pa. / Bethel Park
Anwar O’Neal OL Philadelphia, Pa. / Middletown [Del.]
Nate Reed K Manheim, Pa. / Manheim Central (East Stroudsburg)
Alex Schmoke PK Bellwood, Pa. / Bellwood-Antis (Saint Francis)
KT Seay DB Norfolk, Va. / Maury
Saeed St. Fleur RB Parlin, N.J. / Bergen Catholic
Jackson Taylor LB Glenside, Pa. / Abington Senior (West Chester)
Zack Taylor LS Parsippany, N.J. / Parsippany Hills (Rutgers)
Damarcus Thompson DL Corcoran, Calif. / Corcoran (Reedley)
Noah Vitko LS Dunkirk, Md. / Dematha Catholic
Todd Williams DL Crawfordville, Fla. / Wakulla
Kym Wimberly WR Slidell, La. / Holy Cross HS (Harvard)
Kion Wright DL West Philadelphia, Pa. / Cheltenham
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Delaware football signing class grows to 28 players
February 1, 2023 / By Andy Walter / Delaware State News
NEWARK — The Delaware football team that takes the field for its season opener next Aug. 31, will look a lot different than the one that left the field in December.
After losing a huge senior class of over 30 players, that’s clear. And who lines up as starters in 2023 for the Blue Hens is a long way from being decided.
But as least now Delaware has a lot better idea of what its new roster will look like.
On Wednesday, coach Ryan Carty announced a signing class of 12 more players. That brings to a total 28 players that Delaware has signed since December.
Of those 28 newcomers, 13 are transfers.
While the COVID pandemic and the extended eligibility it brought makes this a unique situation, Carty said the NCAA Transfer Portal means that large fluctuations in college rosters are going to become more commonplace.
“I think that culture of transformation is something that’s going to have to be accepted,” said Carty, who is starting his second year as UD’s head coach.
“Fourteen of these guys are probably not coming until the summer. And there’s probably guys who are not on this list that are on our team come summer. At this point it’s just such a different way to build a team.
“You do have to continue to have a through line of culture and keep working on your leadership,” he added, “so that you can handle whatever transition comes.
Whoever’s on your team needs to buy into that team aspect.”
Of the dozen players that Delaware added on Wednesday, 10 are transfers. They come from Division I, Division II and junior-college programs.
Of the 28-man total, 14 are defensive players, nine play on offense and five are on specials teams.
The Hens worked especially hard on fixing the kicking issues that hurt them last year. They signed two transfer kickers — Alex Schmoke from St. Francis, Pa. and Nate Reed, who kicked at East Stroudsburg two seasons ago.
Delaware also picked up Ryan Kost, who was the first-team all-conference punter at fellow CAA member Monmouth.
“I think the competition side of it is really going to elevate everything,” Carty said about the kicking game.
Among the more noteworthy signings is Keeno Arrington, the son of former Penn State/NFL standout LaVar Arrington. A 6-foot-2, 200-pound defensive back, the younger Arrington spent the last two years at Lackawana JC after not playing football in high school.
The Hens also signed Todd Williams, a 6-foot-2, 240-pound defensive lineman from Wakulla (Fla.). His father, also named Todd, played at Florida State and then in the NFL with the Titans, Buccaneers and Packers.
Another defensive line addition, Kion Wright, had verbally committed to Georgia Tech before they had a coaching change. The Cheltanham High, Pa. product reportedly had 21 Division I offers.
Carty said he won’t be surprised if Williams and Wright make an immediate impact.
“I mean, they’re different, as far the talent level of a freshman at the defensive end position,” said Carty.
The Hens’ signing class was almost evenly split between high school seniors and transfers. While that wasn’t necessarily by design, Carty said that might end up being typical of signing classes in the future.
“It used to be where high school recruiting was kind of your lifeblood,” said Carty. “You might supplement here and there. I don’t know, every year might be different, but it does seem like there’s going be two parallel lifebloods.
“At this point you’re trying to navigate the waters as best is possible and try to continue to find the right people, the right fit and the right talent level wherever they come from.”
Extra points
While they weren’t announced as part of the Hens’ official signing class, Salesianum defensive end Nate Ray — the Class 3A Defensive Player of the Year — and standout kicker James Collins also announced they were signing with Delaware. Presumably they’re coming as walk-ons. ... Delaware’s spring practice is slated to start on March 11. ... Delaware’s signing class includes 10 players that were labeled two or three-star recruits out of high school by major recruiting outlets. ... The class combined to win four state championships and 13 other championships during their high school careers. ... Of the 28 signees, 15 served as team captains in high school.
Sports editor Andy Walter can be reached at walter@iniusa.org. Follow on Twitter at @DSNSports.
Delaware signing class
(Includes players from December and February signing days)
DB-Keeno Arrington, Pittsburgh, Pa./Lincoln Park Performing Arts (Lackawanna)
WR-JoJo Bermudez, Egg Harbor City, N.J./Cedar Creek (Cincinnati)
OL-Anthony Caccese, Reading, Pa./Exeter Township
DB-Kshawn Cox, Bridgeville, Del. / Wise [Md.]
DB-Anthony Crenshaw, Arlington, Texas / James Martin
DB-Nyair Domnie, Jersey City, N.J. / DePaul Catholic
DB-Tyron Herring, Delray Beach, Fla. / Deerfield Beach (Dartmouth)
DL-Keyshawn Hunter, Washington, D.C. / H.D. Woodson (Old Dominion)
WR-Ja’Carree Kelly, Gainesville, Fla. / Buchholz
P-Ryan Kost, Newtown, Conn. / Newtown (Monmouth)
QB-Daniel Lipovski, Burke, Va. / Lake Braddock
DB-Hasson Manning, Newark, N.J. / Hudson Catholic
QB-Zach Marker, Norwalk, Iowa / Norwalk (Iowa Central)
DL-Amin Mimouni, Bayonne, N.J. / Bayonne (Independence)
QB-Nick Minicucci, Midland Park, N.J. / Don Bosco
LB-Gavin Moul, Bethel Park, Pa. / Bethel Park
OL-Anwar O’Neal, Philadelphia, Pa. / Middletown [Del.]
K-Nate Reed, Manheim, Pa. / Manheim Central (East Stroudsburg)
PK-Alex Schmoke, Bellwood, Pa. / Bellwood-Antis (Saint Francis)
DB-KT Seay, Norfolk, Va. / Maury
RB-Saeed St. Fleur, Parlin, N.J. / Bergen Catholic
LB-Jackson Taylor, Glenside, Pa. / Abington Senior (West Chester)
LS-Zack Taylor, Parsippany, N.J. / Parsippany Hills (Rutgers)
DL-Damarcus Thompson, Corcoran, Calif. / Corcoran (Reedley)
LS-Noah Vitko, Dunkirk, Md. / Dematha Catholic
DL-Todd Williams, Crawfordville, Fla. / Wakulla
WR-Kym Wimberly, Slidell, La. / Holy Cross HS (Harvard)
DL-Kion Wright, West Philadelphia, Pa. / Cheltenham
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2023 Football Schedule Announced
01/10/2023 - bluehens.com
NEWARK, Del. - The University of Delaware and Colonial Athletic Association have announced the football schedule for the upcoming 2023 season. Fans will have six opportunities to see the Blue Hens play at Delaware Stadium, including four matchups against CAA opponents.
For the fourth time in the last six years, the Blue Hens will open the season against a CAA opponent as the Blue & Gold travel to Stony Brook for a Thursday night matchup on August 31. The Seawolves finished the 2022 season with a 2-9 overall record and a 1-7 mark in the CAA. It will be just the seventh matchup between the two programs with UD winning two of the past three meetings.
Delaware will hit the road again on September 9 when it takes on Big 10 opponent Penn State. It will be the first meeting between the two programs and UD's second game at a Big 10 school in the past three years. The Blue & Gold are 16-18 all-time in games against FBS opponents, which is the third-most wins by any FCS program, and is coming off a 14-7 win at Navy in the 2022 season opener.
The Blue Hens will open up a four-game homestand when they welcome Saint Francis (Pa.) to Delaware Stadium for the home opener on September 16. It will be the third-straight season that the Red Flash has made the trip to Newark. UD defeated Saint Francis 27-10 in the 2021 home opener before rolling past the Red Flash 56-17 in the first round of the 2022 FCS Championship. It was the most points scored by a Delaware team in the FCS Playoffs.
The Blue & Gold will step back into CAA play on September 23 when New Hampshire visits Delaware Stadium. It will be the first meeting between the two schools since the 2019 season when the Blue Hens defeated the Wildcats 16-10 in Newark. Delaware Head Coach Ryan Carty spent 11 seasons as an assistant coach at UNH from 2007-17, including the last six years as offensive coordinator.
Following a bye week, the Blue & Gold will host Duquesne in a nonconference contest on October 7. The two programs have met just once before, a 30-6 UD victory in Newark during the 2010 season. The homestand will conclude on October 14 when Delaware welcomes in CAA newcomer North Carolina A&T for the first-ever meeting between the two schools.
The Blue Hens will head out on the road for the first time in more than a month when it plays consecutive road games at Hampton (Oct. 21) and Towson (Oct. 28). It will be Delaware's first-ever trip to Hampton, which joined the CAA prior to last season. The two teams met for the first time in 2022 and UD came away with a 35-3 victory by five touchdown passes from Nolan Henderson, including three to Thyrick Pitts. The Blue Hens defeated Towson 24-10 last season as Henderson had two more touchdown passes and Kyron Cumby ran for a 65-yard score.
Delaware will host Elon on November 4 for the first time since 2018. The Blue Hens hold a 3-2 all-time series lead over the Phoenix and have won both matchups at Delaware Stadium in 2014 and 2018. The Blue Hens will make their final road trip of the regular season when they make their first-ever trip to CAA-newcomer Campbell on November 11.
The 2023 regular season will conclude with the annual Battle of the Blue against Villanova when the Wildcats come to Delaware Stadium on November 18.
Game times will be announced at a later date. Season tickets for the 2023 football season are on sale now and can be purchased HERE. Fans must purchase or renew their season tickets by January 31 to lock in 2022 prices.
2023 Delaware Football Schedule:
Aug. 31 - at Stony Brook *
Sep. 9 - at Penn State
Sep. 16 – Saint Francis (Pa.)
Sep. 23 – New Hampshire *
Oct. 7 – Duquesne
Oct. 14 – North Carolina A&T *
Oct. 21 – at Hampton *
Oct. 28 – at Towson *
Nov. 4 – Elon *
Nov. 11 – at Campbell *
Nov. 18 – Villanova *