NEWARK, Del. (AP) — Nick Minicucci threw for three touchdowns and ran for a fourth and Delaware made its debut at the FBS level with a 35-17 win over Delaware State and its new coach DeSean Jackson on Thursday night.

The Blue Hens, now a Conference USA member, wrapped it up when Minicucci found a wide-open Jake Thaw for a 50-yard walk-in in front of Jackson, who set the NFL record with the most 60-yard receptions, with 6:15 to play.

Minicucci was 28 of 36 for 251 yards in a steady rain and ran for 44 yards to lead the Blue Hens.

Delaware coach Ryan Carty has never lost a home opener as a coach, dating back to 2007 and is 22-1 including his playing days with the Blue Hens.

Kahlil Ali had a 45-yard interception return to make it 28-10 early in the fourth quarter. The Hornets responded qu

See Full Page