Delaware

Delaware's transfer portal work stands as the clearest bright spot in an otherwise challenging outlook, with 13 arrivals adding 10.6 points per play above average to offset minimal losses. The Blue Hens grade out at -9.2 points per game in JP+'s preseason ratings, ranking 120th nationally behind a defense that projects as one of the country's worst at -6.0 points per game. Bryson Graves arrives from Coastal Carolina as the headliner at 12.5 PPA, while running back Kaderris Roberts transfers in from Bowling Green to bolster an offense that Nick Minicucci will again direct from the quarterback position.

JP+ projects just 1.4 wins for Delaware in what appears to be a rebuilding campaign, with games against Vanderbilt and Virginia on the road presenting the steepest challenges alongside a home date with Merrimack. The gap between expectation and any potential market optimism likely centers on whether the portal additions can immediately plug the defensive holes that torpedoed the 2025 season. If Graves provides the explosive plays the offense lacked and the defense shows marked improvement, Delaware could surprise and approach .500. If the defensive struggles persist, it's going to be a long year in Newark.