Duke Tops Virginia Tech in Close Game

DURHAM, N.C. — Maalik Murphy played a pivotal role in Duke’s 31-28 victory against a struggling Virginia Tech on Saturday night, throwing three touchdown passes to Eli Pancol. Despite suffering through three interceptions, Murphy’s performance was enough to secure Duke’s second consecutive win.

Pancol had an impressive outing, accumulating 188 receiving yards on just five catches. The Blue Devils, now with an 8-3 record and 4-3 in the Atlantic Coast Conference, found a way to win even after only managing nine first downs until the final four minutes of the game.

For Virginia Tech, Bhayshul Tuten contributed 84 rushing yards and scored a late touchdown, but the Hokies fell to 5-6 and have now lost three games in a row. With starting quarterback Kyron Drones sidelined due to an injury, the Hokies began the game with Collin Schlee but switched to William Watson III later on. Schlee managed to throw one touchdown, while Watson accumulated 140 passing yards and added two points on a conversion run that marked the game’s last score with just under ten minutes remaining.

Duke managed to navigate through four turnovers during the match. One pivotal moment came when Duke was poised at Virginia Tech’s 16-yard line with a first down, only for Star Thomas to fumble the ball, handing possession back to the Hokies with 1:44 left in the game. However, Virginia Tech was unable to gain a single first down in that drive.

The Blue Devils jumped to a quick 14-0 lead within the first six and a half minutes, starting with an 86-yard touchdown pass from Murphy to Pancol on their opening play. The duo struck again on the following possession with a 77-yard touchdown connection.

Virginia Tech responded with 17 consecutive points, highlighted by a 65-yard touchdown pass from Schlee to Ali Jennings, which marked the Hokies’ first score. Ayden Greene then added a 21-yard rushing touchdown, while Jennings racked up a total of 158 yards receiving.

Analysis:
For Virginia Tech, this defeat leaves them needing one more win for bowl eligibility, as they approach their season’s finale. In the last eight minutes of the game, they had three opportunities to either tie or take the lead, but they managed a disappointing total of only 20 yards across those possessions.

Duke’s performance highlighted their ability to produce game-changing plays, although their running game was noticeably underused until the closure of the game. Their defense, which has been solid throughout the season, faced some challenges, but ultimately held strong when it mattered the most. The Blue Devils have posted a commendable 5-1 record at home, with their only setback being an overtime loss earlier in the season.

Looking Ahead:
Virginia Tech will host Virginia next Saturday, while Duke travels to face Wake Forest in their upcoming matchup.