Delaware enters its second season as an FBS program following a successful debut that featured seven wins and a bowl victory. The Blue Hens' offense demonstrated it can compete at the conference level during their inaugural campaign. Before Conference USA play begins in October, Delaware hosts Merrimack on Thursday, September 3, 2026 at 7:00 pm ET at Delaware Stadium in Newark, Delaware, with the matchup airing on ESPN+.
Merrimack finished 4-8 last season but showed competitive ability in close losses to Kent State (21-17) and Kennesaw State (27-13). The Warriors feature a strong pass defense that ranked 11th in the FCS, along with a productive ground game. This marks the first meeting between the two programs.
Delaware's passing attack, led by quarterback Nick Minicucci, should exploit a Merrimack team with several new personnel entering the season. The Blue Hen defense, anchored by linebacker Gavin Moul, will need to contain the Warriors' rushing attack. Delaware moves to Vanderbilt for its next contest, with five of its next eight games scheduled away from home.
