Delaware State’s DeSean Jackson says team “beat ourselves” in debut loss to Delaware
originally appeared on The Sporting News
Delaware State head coach DeSean Jackson walked the sideline for the first time Thursday night, and though his Hornets fell 35–17 at Delaware, he made it clear he saw more promise than setback.
“I think they did a great job, man,” Jackson said. “They came out and weathered the storm. We left a lot of points on the field, but overall, I’m proud of my team. The little things got us today.
Minicucci finds Thaw WIDE OPEN for 50 yards and a score 💪
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— Conference USA (@ConferenceUSA) August 29, 2025
Running back Marquis Gillis was the star. The senior carried 17 times for 123 yards, including a long of 45, and added three receptions for 46 yards and a touchdown. “He’s our driving force,” Jackson said. “That kid is going to be a very special talent and I look to see him play in the NFL.”
Quarterback Kaiden Bennett flashed early, scoring on a 23-yard keeper, but finished 11 of 23 for 135 yards with one touchdown and one interception. “Kadum Bennett, man, has been great,” Jackson said. “We just got to put him in better positions to go out there and be successful. They did a great job of keeping him in the pocket and putting pressure on him.”
Penalties and turnovers told the story. Delaware State was flagged 13 times for 109 yards and threw two interceptions. “I feel like we beat ourselves,” Jackson said. “It was nothing they did. We shot ourselves in the foot. If you go back and look at the possessions, we left points on the field.”
Still, the new coach believes in the path forward. “It’s not time to panic,” Jackson said. “We did a hell of a job, but there’s a lot we could’ve done better. I’m a winner. I don’t lose in my life. Wherever I go, we’re going to have success.”
Delaware State will attempt to bounce back next Saturday when they host Albany.
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