It’s “go” time for one of the best to ever run a “go” route.

Former NFL star receiver DeSean Jackson debuted as Delaware State's head coach during the Hornets' annual Red-White spring game this Saturday (April 12).

Delaware State University, one of the nation's 99 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), a member of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC), and one of only a handful of HBCUs located in the north, made waves last December when they hired Jackson to lead their football program. The three-time Pro Bowler, who racked up over 11,000 receiving yards during his 15-year NFL career, joins Deion Sanders and Michael Vick as part of a new wave of former NFL stars now bringing that big-league experience to HBCUs.

Saturday's intrasquad scrimmage gave Hornets fans their first glimpse of the former Philadelphia Eagles receiver’s Jackson's coaching style..

Sideline Energy
Jackson paced the sidelines in Delaware State blue and red. Just two years removed from his playing days, the 38-year-old reportedly remained active throughout the scrimmage, pulling players aside for one-on-one coaching moments while occasionally showcasing the same animated gestures that made him a fan favorite during his playing career.

"We're not rebuilding," Jackson declared during his introductory press conference. "This isn't rebuilding. We don't have time to waste. We're doing this right now."

Offensive Innovations
Anyone who watched Jackson stretch the field during his NFL days won't be surprised that Delaware State's offense showed explosive potential during the scrimmage. Several deep passes connected during the game, suggesting that Jackson's "take the top off the defense" philosophy as a player has already influenced the Hornets' playbook.

The Red team narrowly defeated the White team 24-21, with sophomore quarterback Marquis Williams connecting on three touchdown passes, while the defense recorded four sacks and two interceptions.

HBCU Renaissance
Jackson's move to Delaware State continues the growing trend of former NFL stars taking their talents to historically Black colleges and universities. The movement, which gained significant momentum when the aforementioned Deion Sanders took over at Jackson State, has seen Eddie George lead Tennessee State and Michael Vick accepting the head coaching position at Norfolk State.

It has always been a dream of Jackson's to coach at a historically Black college or university according to ESPN reports when he was hired.

For Delaware State, which finished 2-9 last season and hasn't posted a winning record since 2012, Jackson's arrival represents hope for a program seeking to reclaim relevance. His NFL connections and name recognition have already improved the recruiting outlook.

Recruiting Impact
Following Saturday's spring game, fans were invited onto the field for autographs and photos with coaches and players—a community-building exercise that reflects D-Jac’s desire to connect with the program’s supporters in a way that goes beyond X's and O's.

"We ain't waiting," Jackson stated boldly. "We want to be there this year. We want to win the MEAC this year."

Players are already feeling the impact of Jackson's leadership. "My initial reaction was just… it was a big blessing in disguise," wide receiver Avari Marshall told The Hornet Newspaper. "You know, for him to be the person he is, to become our new head coach, knowing that it could impact and change the culture of the school—that's something we needed."