Delaware hosts Merrimack in season opener at Delaware Stadium

The Delaware Blue Hens kick off their 2026 season against the Merrimack Hawks on September 3 at 7 p.m. at Delaware Stadium. This matchup marks the program's second season as an FBS and Conference USA member. Delaware quarterback Nick Minicucci, a preseason Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year candidate, enters the game following a 2025 campaign where he tallied at least 3,500 passing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns. Coach Ryan Carty, who enters his fifth season leading the program, has maintained an undefeated record in home openers throughout his coaching career. The Blue Hens will debut a new uniform combination for the contest, opting for blue jerseys paired with white pants. Delaware finished last year with 540 pass attempts, ranking second among all FBS teams.

• 10:14 PMYahoo Sports — Delaware football vs. Merrimack live updates, score and highlights