Under new head coach Manny Diaz, the Duke Blue Devils displayed remarkable resilience to secure a thrilling 26-20 double overtime victory against the Northwestern Wildcats on Friday night.
With a suspenseful atmosphere enveloping Lanny and Sharon Martin Stadium, the Manny Diaz era at Duke commenced with an electrifying 2-0 start. The Blue Devils relinquished a 10-point deficit in the final seconds of regulation and triumphed in double overtime.
Duke Football Thrills on the Gridiron, Defeating Northwestern in Double Overtime
Following a coaching transition that saw Mike Elko depart for Texas A&M, the Blue Devils welcomed new quarterback Maalik Murphy to the forefront. Murphy, displaying poise and determination under pressure, orchestrated a crucial 11-play, 51-yard drive in the waning moments of the fourth quarter. His precision passing enabled kicker Todd Pelino to knot the score at 13-13, sending the contest into overtime.
Northwestern took the early lead in overtime, but Murphy and the Blue Devils responded with an equally swift touchdown on their first possession. Wide receiver Jordan Moore's speedy dash behind the Wildcats' secondary allowed Murphy to connect effortlessly, tying the score once again.
Duke Football Thrills on the Gridiron, Defeating Northwestern in Double Overtime
The second overtime brought more drama. Murphy's quick strike to Moore for 22 yards set the stage for a three-yard touchdown reception by Eli Pancol. Despite failing to convert a two-point attempt, the Blue Devils held a narrow 26-20 advantage.
With Northwestern threatening within Duke's three-yard line, the Blue Devil defense stepped up. Chandler Rivers' eight-yard sack on third down thwarted the Wildcats' momentum. On fourth down, a desperate heave by Mike Wright fell incomplete, securing Duke's victory.
Duke Football Thrills on the Gridiron, Defeating Northwestern in Double Overtime
"This one definitely hurts," lamented Northwestern coach David Braun. "A lot of guys in that locker room are struggling."
The loss snapped Northwestern's five-game winning streak dating back to last season. Conversely, it marked the Blue Devils' sixth consecutive victory over the Wildcats since 2016.
Duke Football Thrills on the Gridiron, Defeating Northwestern in Double Overtime
While acknowledging quarterback Wright's positive contributions, Braun emphasized the need for improvement. "Mike needs to do a better job of valuing the football," Braun said.
In contrast, the Blue Devils praised Murphy's leadership and composure. Moore described him as "very confident, very poised."
Murphy's impressive performance included 242 passing yards and three touchdowns. The Blue Devils will continue their season by hosting the Connecticut Huskies on September 14th. Meanwhile, Northwestern seeks redemption when they play Eastern Illinois on the same date.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
