NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — Elijah Howard showcased his skills by rushing for 110 yards and scoring twice, leading the Central Connecticut Blue Devils to a 21-14 victory over the Duquesne Dukes on Saturday. This win granted Central Connecticut the automatic bid to the FCS playoffs as champions of the Northeast Conference (NEC).

Howard’s significant contribution included a crucial game-winning touchdown where he sprinted six yards to the end zone. Following this, he successfully converted a two-point attempt, connecting with quarterback Brady Olson, which capped the score at 13:44 remaining in the fourth quarter.

The Blue Devils’ defense exhibited a formidable performance, registering seven interceptions throughout the game. Their defensive effort was pivotal in sealing the victory, particularly in the closing stages when they halted the Dukes during their final three drives. After the Blue Devils scored their last touchdown, Jalen Howard made a critical play by sacking Duquesne’s quarterback, Darius Perrantes, on the immediate play and forcing a fumble that was recovered by Central Connecticut.

Although the Blue Devils had the opportunity to extend their lead when Jack Barnum attempted a 40-yard field goal that failed, Duquesne promptly gave possession back after Perrantes threw an interception in the end zone.

Following a brief Blue Devils punt after their next possession, the Dukes failed to capitalize once more as Perrantes was intercepted again. Throughout the match, Perrantes struggled significantly, throwing a total of seven interceptions—three of which were caught by Christopher Jean, while Davone Walden Jr. secured two, and Deon McLean and Vincent Thomas both added one interception each.

With their previous victory against Wagner, Duquesne had already secured at least a share of the NEC title, marking the seventh time they have accomplished this in the program’s history. This game marked the second consecutive year Duquesne found themselves in a decisive contest for the NEC automatic bid, having previously won against Merrimack in the final week of last season to claim the title outright.