The Manny Diaz era arguably had it's biggest moment last night during the Battle of the Victory Bell against arch rival North Carolina in a complete second half shut out led by the ACC's 2nd overall rank total defense in Duke. After scoring 20 points in the first holding a 20-0 halftime lead, North Carolina and it's offense led by 3rd string quarterback Jacolby Criswell and Omarion Hampton did not put up a single point for the duration of the contest.
The comeback matched the second biggest comeback in school history. The Blue Devils had not defeated the Tar Heels since 2018 (Daniel Jones at QB) but have had exciting thrillers since including last year's double overtime loss at Chapel Hill.
A Star is Born
Star Thomas who became a father two weeks ago was the star of the show, rushing for a career high 166 rushing yards, on a season high 30 attempts. Thomas also accounted for 45 receiving yards, one leading to the Blue Devils first touchdown of the game. Star attributes his mother's love, his newborn and wisdom on his strong start.
(video courtesy of Royal Howell- The Juice Network)
Stay focus on your dream, and taking advantage of your opportunity while you have it" - Star Thomas
(photo courtesy of Duke athletics on X)
Under Manny Diaz for the first time since 1994, Duke is 5-0, 1-0 in conference play. After a tumultous offseason which included transfers, departures and head coach Mike Elko leaving for College Station left alot of uncertainty around the program. One thing for certain is the players being receptive of Diaz direction, culture and vision that has kept the program afloat.
Key Stats
Maalik Murphy 15-34, 209 yards, 1 TD
Jordan Moore 4 recs, 80 yards
Eli Pancol 3 recs, 42 yards
Ozzie Nichols, Terry Moore both accounted for 10 tackles each
Tre Freeman 8 tackles, 1 interception
(photo courtesy of KAITLIN MCKEOWN kmckeown@newsobserver.com)
Next for Duke
5-0 Duke heads to Atlanta to take on the 3-2 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Saturday October 5th with coverage starting at 8pm on the ACC Network.
Comentários