[ by Rick Pettine ]
November 18, 2023 – Newark, DE — Another decisive win (35-7) for the Villanova Wildcats over the University of Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens, and the Battle of the Blue trophy stays with Nova.
The game started as expected, back and forth with no shortage of penalties on both sides. But after the first half ended, the Wildcats began to pile on the points all throughout the second half.
Nova QB Connor Watkins had another spectacular day, with 222 passing yards, including 121 yards and 2 TDs to Jaaron Hayek. Jalen Jackson rushed for 130 yards, and both DeeWil Barlee and TD Ayo-Durojaiye scored rushing touchdowns.
Once again, Villanova’s tough defense limited the Blue Hen scoring, led by Brendan Bell with 12 tackles. They even added to the offense’s scoring with a touchdown from Danny Abraham’s 69-yard pick-6.
With the win, Nova clinched the CAA Conference Championship and an automatic bid to the FCS Division-1 Playoffs. The playoff picture will be revealed Sunday afternoon on ESPNU.
Partial game coverage is in the gallery below:
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