Delaware Dominates Campbell with Minicucci’s Stellar Performance
November 17, 2024
Blue Hens improve to 9-1 overall, remain undefeated at home, and prepare for FBS transition in 2025.
By Saquan Stimpson
Newark, DE — The University of Delaware Blue Hens relied on a standout performance by quarterback Nick Minicucci to defeat the Campbell Fighting Camels 41-22 in front of 16,422 fans on Saturday.
Adding to the special atmosphere, notable Delaware alumni Governor John Carney (Class of ’84) and Wilmington Mayor Mike Purzycki (Class of ’67) served as honorary captains. Mayor Purzycki had the honor of flipping the coin prior to kickoff, setting the stage for a dominant Blue Hens performance.
Wilmington Mayor MIKE PURZYCKI flips the coin as Referee ALEX PARRELLA and Captains looks on prior during the final regular season home game between Delaware Blue Hens and Campbell University Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024; at Tubby Raymond Field on the campus of the University of Delaware in Newark, Del. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
Minicucci accounted for all five of Delaware’s touchdowns, throwing four and rushing for two, as the Blue Hens showcased their offensive firepower.
The game started strong for Delaware, with Minicucci capping an opening drive with a 6-yard touchdown run at 6:40 in the first quarter. Later in the quarter, he connected with Phil Lutz for a 33-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 12-0.
Delaware Fightin Blue Hens wide receiver PHIL LUTZ (13) catches a one handed touchdown pass during the final regular season home game between Delaware Blue Hens and Campbell University Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024; at Tubby Raymond Field on the campus of the University of Delaware in Newark, Del. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
Campbell responded quickly with Mike Chandler II hitting VJ Wilkins for a stunning 75-yard touchdown pass just 14 seconds later, narrowing the gap to 12-6.
In the second quarter, Minicucci and Lutz combined again, this time for an 8-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful two-point conversion. Despite a 66-yard touchdown reception by Wilkins, Delaware maintained control with a 3-yard scoring run from Minicucci to close the half at 27-16.
Campbell clawed back in the third quarter, with Mark Biggins powering in a 3-yard touchdown run to tighten the game to 27-22. However, Delaware’s defense stiffened, and their offense delivered in the clutch.
Minicucci connected with Jake Thaw for a 17-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter, and later sealed the game with a 38-yard strike to Jojo Bermudez. A late defensive stand secured the 41-22 victory for the Blue Hens.
Delaware Fightin Blue Hens wide receiver JAKE THAW (15) catches a touchdown pass as Campbell Fighting Camels safety DA’QUAN JOHNSON (10) defends during the final regular season home game between Delaware Blue Hens and Campbell University Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024; at Tubby Raymond Field on the campus of the University of Delaware in Newark, Del. Photo By Saquan Stimpson
Delaware’s offense was efficient, with Minicucci distributing the ball to multiple targets and finishing with over 300 total yards. Lutz was his primary target, hauling in two touchdowns, while Bermudez provided a late-game spark.
Campbell’s VJ Wilkins had a career night with two long touchdown receptions, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the balanced attack of the Blue Hens.
Delaware Fightin Blue Hens linebacker DILLON TRAINER (19) celebrates after a regular season home win over Campbell University Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024; at Tubby Raymond Field on the campus of the University of Delaware in Newark, Del. Photo by Saquan Stimpson
The victory improves Delaware’s record to 9-1 overall and a perfect 7-0 at home. Next Saturday, the Blue Hens travel to face conference rival Villanova at 1 p.m.
Looking ahead, Delaware is set to join Conference USA in 2025 as a full member. The Blue Hens will transition to the Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), the highest level of competition in the NCAA. With their dominant play this season, Delaware is proving they’re ready for the next level.