Delaware Football Joins FBS, Elevating State Pride and National Presence

What's Happening?

Delaware football has officially joined the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), marking a significant transition from its previous status in Division I-AA and later the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). This move positions Delaware as the 135th FBS team and a new member of Conference USA. Historically, Delaware has been recognized for its strong football tradition, including an FCS title in 2003 and producing NFL players like Rich Gannon and Joe Flacco. The decision to join FBS was influenced by the success of former rivals such as James Madison and Appalachian State, financial challenges at the FCS level, and a collective desire among fans and leadership to compete on a larger stage. The Blue Hens will begin their FBS journey on August 28 against Delaware State, aiming to showcase their capabilities and enhance state pride.

Why It's Important?

Delaware's move to FBS is a strategic effort to elevate its football program and enhance the university's national profile. This transition is expected to bring increased visibility and potential financial benefits through larger audiences and more lucrative broadcasting deals. For the state of Delaware, this development is a source of pride and an opportunity to challenge stereotypes associated with its size and prominence. The move also aligns with broader trends in college sports, where institutions seek to maximize their competitive and financial potential. Success in FBS could lead to enhanced recruitment opportunities and a stronger athletic department overall, benefiting the university and its stakeholders.

What's Next?

As Delaware embarks on its FBS journey, the university will focus on building a competitive team capable of facing larger and more established programs. This will involve strategic recruitment efforts and potentially increased investment in athletic facilities and resources. The university will also need to navigate the challenges of competing in a more demanding conference, balancing the expectations of fans and stakeholders with the realities of FBS competition. Success in this new era could lead to further opportunities for growth and development within the university's athletic programs.