Tahlequah, Okla. — The Delta State University football team opened the 2026 season on the road Friday night, falling to Northeastern State, 52-0, at Doc Wadley Stadium.

The RiverHawks struck quickly and never let up, scoring three first-quarter touchdowns to take a 21-0 lead and control early momentum. Northeastern State added a field goal in the second quarter before pulling away with 28 second-half points to seal the season-opening win.

Delta State (0-1) struggled to find rhythm offensively against a fast-paced Northeastern State defense. The Statesmen were limited to 69 yards of total offense and just four first downs on the night, while converting 0-of-11 attempts on third down.

Quarterback Emile Picarella III led DSU through the air, finishing 6-of-17 for 46 yards, while Reed Miller added 13 passing yards in relief. On the ground, Nick Clark paced the rushing attack with 13 yards. Matt Rozier led the receiving corps with three catches for 17 yards.

Defensively, the Statesmen were led by Tavian Moore, who recorded a game-high 10 tackles, while Drake Fowler added eight stops. Despite the defensive effort, Northeastern State totaled 519 yards of offense, including 319 passing yards from quarterback Donnie Smith, who threw four touchdowns.

Northeastern State (1-0) was paced by Cam Jackson, who hauled in five receptions for 142 yards and two touchdowns, and Deuce Roberson, who added nine catches for 90 yards and a score.

Delta State will look to bounce back next week as the Statesmen continue non-conference play next Saturday at home against Wingate University.