Norfolk State has made only one playoff appearance since moving to FCS in 1997. The last five Spartan head coaches have had losing records, including Dawson Odoms, who was fired in November after going 15-30 in four seasons. Jackson replaced Lee Hull after the Hornets went 1-11 last season.

The new head coaches, speaking ahead of their Norfolk State vs. Delaware State match this fall, also thanks Eagles coaches and staffers, like Andy Reid and Big Dom DiSandro.