Historic Upset: Delaware State Hornets Beats MEAC Powerhouse North Carolina Central Eagles at Home for First Time Since 1977

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In a thrilling Saturday afternoon showdown, Delaware State came into Durham and shook up the rankings. The Hornets defeated the North Carolina Central Eagles 35-26, claiming their first win on NCCU’s home turf since October 15, 1977.

 

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Game Recap

  • The Eagles struck first: a 33-yard field goal gave them an early 3-0 lead in the first quarter.  
  • DSU answered before halftime: QB Kaiden Bennett to WR NyGhee Lolley connected for a 5-yard touchdown, putting Delaware State ahead 7-3. NCCU regained the lead before the break at 10-7.  
  • In the third quarter, Delaware State took control: Lolley hauled in two more long TDs (72 yards, 25 yards) from Bennett to extend the lead to 21-10.  
  • NCCU battled back late in the third and early fourth, retaking a 24-21 lead via a 10-yard pass. But DSU’s senior RB Marquis Gillis ground out two crucial scores in the final 15 minutes — a 33-yard dash and a 2-yard plunge — sealing it for the Hornets.  
  • Final plays: DSU forced a fumble inside the red-zone and took an intentional safety as time expired, closing the game at 35-26.  

Why This Win Matters

  • This is DSU’s first conference win in the MEAC since November 5, 2022.  
  • It’s their first victory in Durham in 48 years — the 1977 win was a 23-0 shutout on October 15, 1977.  
  • The win stalls NCCU’s Homecoming and sends a message: DSU is no longer the under-dog at MEAC dunk. According to HBCU Sports: “The DeSean Jackson era at Delaware State now can claim its biggest win.”  

Standout Performances

  • Bennett: 9-of-15 for 212 yards and 3 TDs.  
  • Lolley: 5 catches for 124 yards and 3 TDs.  
  • Gillis: 21 rushes for 108 yards and 2 TDs.  
  • NCCU had 354 passing yards via quarterback Walker Harris but it wasn’t enough to overcome key turnovers and a stout DSU run game.  

What’s Next

  • For DSU (5-3 overall, 1-0 MEAC), this win puts them comfortably in the MEAC title conversation — and gives them momentum heading into their next road test at Norfolk State Spartans on October 30.  
  • NCCU (5-3, 0-1 MEAC) will regroup and travel to face Howard Bison next week.