The HBCU soccer offseason simply obtained a bit of spicier. Former Delaware State quarterback Marqui Adams, one of many extra electrifying dual-threat QBs within the MEAC, is on the transfer—and two of the SWAC’s premier applications are reportedly calling. Adams introduced he has acquired gives from Jackson State and Southern College, signaling a possible convention bounce that might influence the HBCU soccer panorama in 2025 and past.
Adams, a 6-foot-1, 190-pound redshirt junior from Philadelphia’s Neumann-Goretti, entered the NCAA switch portal on July 25, simply as Delaware State signed Kaiden Bennett, a dynamic former Sacramento State quarterback. The timing of Adams’ departure suggests a shifting QB room in Dover, and now the previous MEAC starter would possibly discover new life within the rival SWAC.
From MEAC to SWAC?
For HBCU soccer followers, a MEAC-to-SWAC switch carries extra than simply logistical implications. It touches the center of the Celebration Bowl rivalry. Since 2015, the MEAC and SWAC champions have confronted off in Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium to determine the Black Faculty Soccer Nationwide Championship. So, when a MEAC standout probably lands with a SWAC contender, it provides an additional layer of intrigue to the MEAC vs SWAC storyline.
Whereas Jackson State returns SWAC Preseason Participant of the Yr Jacobian Morgan at quarterback, the depth chart took a success when Zy McDonald, final yr’s backup, who led JSU within the SWAC Championship Sport, transferred to Clark Atlanta again in April. McDonald got here off the bench late within the first half, tied the sport earlier than halftime, and was named Offensive MVP of the title sport. His departure opens a chance within the Tigers’ QB room—one Adams may probably fill.
The Stats Again It Up
In 2024, Adams performed in six video games earlier than a season-ending damage. Regardless of the shortened season, he posted 1,031 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and three interceptions, whereas including 285 speeding yards and three speeding scores—second on the staff in all speeding classes. His standout efficiency got here towards Campbell, the place he threw for 4 touchdowns.
Throughout his Delaware State profession, Adams accounted for 16 whole touchdowns in 19 video games and was named an FCS Freshman All-American in 2023, displaying glimpses of what he may grow to be when wholesome and in rhythm.
Coach Jackson on Adams: “He Can Do Some Particular Issues”
Delaware State head coach DeSean Jackson didn’t mince phrases about Adams’ expertise throughout spring ball.
“Marqui is a playmaker, man,” Jackson stated earlier this yr. “He can do some particular issues together with his legs… he scored like a 50-yard landing [in the spring showcase].”
Nonetheless, the Hornets are turning the web page with Bennett beneath middle. Adams now holds two playing cards from the SWAC, each applications recognized for top expectations and high-profile video games.
Whether or not he fits up in Baton Rouge, Jackson, or will get one other SWAC supply, one factor is obvious: a MEAC expertise crossing over to the SWAC solely provides gasoline to one among faculty soccer’s most original rivalries.
With the Celebration Bowl as the last word vacation spot, Marqui Adams’s subsequent transfer may probably form the HBCU soccer championship race.
