HBCU fans get a classic regional matchup as Delaware State hosts Bowie State—a game pulsing with history, pride, and positioning. Delaware State enters looking to build momentum under new leadership, while Bowie State arrives aiming to prove last year’s result was no fluke. For HBCU die-hards in the corridor, Delaware State vs. Bowie State is more than a date on the schedule; it’s a temperature check on where these programs are headed, and it’s why Bowie State and Delaware State will be said a lot today—because this HBCU matchup matters.
Series snapshot and a quick rewind
The modern series turned up the heat in 2021, but the roots run deep. DSU’s own notes ahead of the 2021 game cite four early-era meetings: 1933 (Bowie State 26–18), 1934 (Delaware State 13–0), 1936 (Delaware State 18–9), and 1984 (Delaware State 70–8). Those results show long gaps between clashes, yet the rivalry DNA has stuck around the region.
The recent turning point
The most recent meeting swung toward Bowie State: on Sept. 2, 2023, the Bulldogs went into Dover and beat Delaware State 22–11 on Hall of Fame Weekend. That win reset the tone and gave Bowie State a fresh talking point on the recruiting trail and in living rooms across the DMV and First State.
When was Delaware State’s last win streak?
If you’re asking when Delaware State last stacked wins, the answer is October 2022. The Hornets beat Robert Morris 14–9 on Oct. 1, then handled Norfolk State 28–7 on Oct. 15—a clean two-game win streak that month. Since then, consistency has been the question, which is why this HBCU test versus Bowie State is such a big measuring stick.
What this game means for Delaware State
For Delaware State, this is a credibility builder. Win here, and the Hornets can point to tangible progress since that 2022 blip of momentum and last season’s struggles. It’s a chance to show cleaner execution, better trench play, and a defense that finishes drives. From an HBCU lens, a strong showing helps the brand in MEAC country and steadies the narrative ahead of conference play.
What this game means for Bowie State
For Bowie State, the assignment is simple: validate 2023. A second straight win over Delaware State would confirm the Bulldogs’ physical identity still travels and that their skill talent can finish red-zone chances. It also resonates on the DII-to-FCS measuring stick fans love to debate in HBCU spaces—especially when it’s Bowie State crossing into Dover with confidence.
Matchup keys to watch
- Line of scrimmage: Can Delaware State win first down and stay ahead of the chains, or will Bowie State force third-and-long?
- Explosives vs. explosives: Both sides need timely shots. The team that lands the cleaner chunk plays likely controls tempo.
- Special teams & field position: In tight HBCU games like this, hidden yards flip outcomes.
Why this matters to HBCU fans
This is a recruiting map game and a bragging-rights game. Families from Baltimore to Dover will be watching which staff showcases development, composure, and late-game control. For the HBCU community, Delaware State vs. Bowie State is a litmus test for program trajectory—are the Hornets turning a corner, or do the Bulldogs own the moment?
Bottom line
History says these programs know each other; 2023 says Bowie State carries the latest punch; and 2022 reminds us Delaware State can string wins when it plays clean football. For HBCU football fans, circle it: Delaware State has a chance to reset the narrative, and Bowie State can double down on last year’s statement.