DURHAM, N.C. — Duke head coach Manny Diaz announced that quarterback Maalik Murphy will face “internal” consequences following an inappropriate celebratory gesture after throwing a long touchdown pass in the team’s recent victory over Virginia Tech. Murphy, who transferred from Texas, was seen on the ACC Network raising both middle fingers in the direction of offensive coordinator Jonathan Brewer, prompting Diaz to address the incident publicly.

During a press conference on Monday, Diaz explained that Murphy’s actions stemmed from a playful exchange during practice earlier in the week. He noted that the quarterback had been struggling with completing passes and that Brewer jokingly suggested, “If you throw a post for a touchdown in the game, then you can flick me off.” Diaz emphasized that while the gesture was rooted in excitement, such behavior is deemed “unacceptable” within their program and goes against the standards they uphold.

Murphy’s touchdown celebration occurred shortly after he connected on an impressive 86-yard pass to Eli Pancol, who sprinted downfield without being challenged. Following the successful play, Murphy showed his exuberance by jumping and chest-bumping his teammate Star Thomas, before raising his arms with the controversial gesture.

Brewer commented on the incident, admitting that he initially missed the moment during the game but later caught it on a replay. He acknowledged that comments made during coaching sometimes carry comedic undertones and aren’t intended to be taken literally in a competitive environment.

In the game itself, Murphy displayed his skills by throwing for 332 yards and securing three touchdowns, despite also recording three interceptions. This impressive performance contributed to Duke’s narrow 31-28 victory, improving their record to 8-3 with a 4-3 standing in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The Blue Devils are set to conclude their regular season against Wake Forest, where they will aim to build on their recent success.