Duke Stages Dramatic Comeback to Defeat North Carolina 21-20
The Blue Devils overcame a 20-point deficit in the second half, securing a victory with a late touchdown and ending a six-game losing streak against their rivals.
- Duke rallied from a 20-point deficit to beat North Carolina 21-20 in their Atlantic Coast Conference opener.
- Running back Star Thomas scored two touchdowns and rushed for 166 yards, while Peyton Jones clinched the win with a 20-yard touchdown run.
- Quarterback Maalik Murphy threw for 209 yards and a touchdown, contributing to Duke's 297 yards of total offense in the second half.
- Tre Freeman's interception with 25 seconds remaining sealed the victory, prompting Blue Devils fans to storm the field.
- The win marked a significant milestone for first-year Duke coach Manny Diaz and ended North Carolina's five-game winning streak in the series.