Before the Super Bowl-winning HBCU coach took over in 2025, Delaware State’s football program had highs and lows. The Hornets started the 2005 season strong, defeating Florida A&M 21–17 and rolling past Millersville 38–6 to jump to 2–0. But rough patches, like the 65–7 loss to James Madison, reminded fans of the team’s inconsistency. Still, they closed the season 7–4, showing glimpses of promise. But fast forward to today, the Hornets’ progress is undeniable. Following a difficult loss to Bowie State two years ago, Delaware State rebounded with the Philadelphia Eagles legend at the helm. And their resurgence was on full display when the Bulldogs returned to Alumni Stadium on Sept. 13, signaling that the program is now moving in a competitive direction. So, did they win or lose that game?

The Hornets cruised to a 36-14 victory. Following that, on September 17, HBCU Premier Sports & More highlighted the immediate impact DeSean Jackson is having at Delaware State. The Hornets, three games into their first season under the Super Bowl-winning coach, are off to a strong start. Now, at 2-1, he’s already surpassed his total wins from 2023 and 2024. So, the momentum is building, and Delaware State is showing signs of a program on the rise. Because the HBCU program is firing on all cylinders under DeSean Jackson.

Yes, the Hornets notched their first winning streak since 2022, bouncing back from an opener loss to win back-to-back games. And their dominance on the ground is unmatched, they boast the No. 1 rushing offense in FCS. On top of that, QB Kaiden Bennett has been electric, already leading FCS in scoring with 42 points. Look, he went 17-of-29 for 179 yards, including a 64-yard strike to Phillipe Wesley that opened the scoring. After that, Bennett also added a 24-yard rushing TD, while Wesley hauled in six catches. So, the Hornets are playing fast, physical, and fun football, and it’s paying off.

Delaware State kicked off its season on a rough note, falling 35-17 to in-state rival Delaware. But DeSean Jackson’s presence on the sidelines was felt right away. The very next week, the Hornets showed resilience, storming back at home for a 37-32 win over Albany in dramatic fashion. They carried that momentum into last weekend, rolling past Bowie State with ease.

Now, the road gets tougher with a trip to St. Francis (PA), followed by a schedule that features NC Central, Sacred Heart, Morgan State, Monmouth, Howard, Norfolk State, and South Carolina State. Jackson’s value can’t be measured by the scoreboard alone, but winning certainly makes a statement. And right now, Delaware State looks energized and confident under his leadership.

HBCU coach DeSean Jackson is shaping a winning culture

Although DeSean Jackson is quickly making his mark at Delaware State. But the former NFL Pro Bowler isn’t satisfied. “I’m happy about the win, but I know we can do a lot better,” stated Jackson, after the triumph over Bowie State. Now, he’s focused on growth, discipline, and long-term change, pushing his team beyond just victories.

Well, the Hornets are leaning on a potent rushing attack, with freshman Sean Weston standing out amid injuries and roster challenges. Here, Jackson praised him, saying, “When he gets that ball in his hand, he’s a physical runner. He’s shown he can play at a high level, even as a young guy.” Then, DB Anthony Hebert has also helped stabilize the defense, showing the depth of Jackson’s impact across the team. But the new coach’s focus goes beyond stats.

Jackson is instilling accountability, mental toughness, and team-first discipline. “It’s not about perfection,” he said. “But if someone pushes you over the limit and you hurt the team, that’s selfish ball. And that’s not going to be tolerated here.” Then, drawing lessons from NFL mentors like Sean McVay, Andy Reid, and teammates from his Eagles days, Jackson is shaping a culture he calls “The Hornets Way.” Given that, Jackson added, “We want to be physical. We want to outlast our opponent. And we want to be violent at the point of attack. So, the standard is the standard: no one is above it.” Now, the question is: how will the HBCU team perform in the rest of the season?