After a week off to rest, recruit and reconnect with the community, the North Carolina Central football team is ready to return to action – and just in time for homecoming weekend.
The Eagles, 5-2 so far in 2025, enter Saturday’s 1 p.m. kickoff against an improved Delaware State squad riding a four-game winning streak and averaging more than 45 points per contest.
Head coach Trei Oliver said the bye week came at an ideal time, allowing his team to regroup and refocus before the start of Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) play.
“This week off was very productive,” Oliver said during the MEAC coaches’ call on Monday.
North Carolina Central’s offense has been electric this season, outscoring opponents 206–88 during their current win streak. Senior quarterback Walker Harris and the offensive line have led a balanced attack that has averaged more than 450 yards per game.
“I’ve been pleased with our offensive play overall,” Oliver said. “Those guys have done a great job being efficient with the football and taking care of it. Defensively, we’ve played a lot of guys and our chemistry and communication have really improved over the last few weeks. We’re trending in the right direction.”
Delaware State (4–3) enters the matchup boasting FCS’ top rushing offense, averaging 327 yards per game on the ground. Oliver said stopping the Hornets’ running game will be key if the Eagles hope to extend their winning streak.
“They’re big and physical up front and have two really good running backs – [Marquis] Gillis kid and [James] Jones – plus their quarterback [Kaiden Bennett] can run,” Oliver said. “They’re averaging over seven yards a carry. That’s almost a first down every time they run the ball. We’re going to be tested, but our defensive line is up for the challenge.”
While some coaches use ball-control tactics to keep potent rushing teams off the field, Oliver said that’s not the Eagles’ style.
“We’re going to play football and score points,” he said. “If you can get up on a team that likes to run the ball, you can put some pressure on them and make them do something they don’t want to do.”
North Carolina Central’s success has come from what Oliver’s trademark “culture over scheme” philosophy – a focus on player development, discipline and resilience that extends beyond the field.
“Guys like [wide receiver] Nyle Crosby are great examples of that,” Oliver said. “He was a walk-on who worked his way up through hard work and perseverance. It’s about developing men and rewarding that effort.”
Despite being heavy favorites, Oliver said his team isn’t overconfident heading into homecoming.
“We haven’t done anything yet,” he said. “We’re 0–0 in conference play. This isn’t the same Delaware State team we played last year — they’re much improved and well-coached. We won’t overlook them.”
