Murfreesboro, TN
Sep 21, 2024
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An explosive first quarter propelled the Duke Blue Devils to a 45-17 triumph over the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders on a stormy Saturday night at Johnny “Red” Floyd Stadium. Duke, now 4-0 for the second consecutive season, showcased an efficient offense helmed by quarterback Maalik Murphy, who threw for 216 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Star Thomas, stepping up in place of the injured Jaquez Moore, rushed for 111 yards and two touchdowns. Tight end Nicky Dalmolin contributed significantly with 100 receiving yards and two touchdowns. The game, interrupted by a nearly two-hour lightning delay, saw Duke capitalize on Middle Tennessee's four turnovers, converting each into a touchdown.
Despite Jaiden Credle’s early 66-yard touchdown run for Middle Tennessee, the Blue Raiders struggled to maintain momentum. They turned the ball over thrice in the first quarter, leading to a 28-10 deficit. Duke's defense, led by linebacker Alex Howard, who tallied 1.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss, continually disrupted Middle Tennessee's offense, including a key interception by DaShawn Stone. The Blue Raiders’ quarterback Nicholas Vattiato managed a late touchdown pass to Holden Willis, but it wasn't enough to overcome their early mistakes. Duke now gears up for a crucial ACC opener against rival North Carolina.
Jaiden Credle (Middle Tennessee)
Jaiden Credle bolted through Duke's defense for a 66-yard touchdown on the Blue Raiders' third play of the game, putting Middle Tennessee ahead 7-0.
Nicky Dalmolin (Duke)
Just 41 seconds after Credle’s run, Murphy connected with Dalmolin for a 71-yard touchdown pass, swiftly tying the game and underscoring Duke's explosive response.
Peyton Jones (Duke)
Following a fumble recovery by Kendy Charles, Peyton Jones finished a short drive with a 1-yard touchdown run, putting Duke in the lead 14-7.
Star Thomas (Duke)
Taking advantage of another Middle Tennessee fumble, Thomas dived in for a 1-yard touchdown, extending Duke's lead significantly to 21-10.
Nicky Dalmolin (Duke)
Murphy found Dalmolin again for a 7-yard touchdown reception, capping a 24-yard drive and pushing Duke ahead 28-10 by the end of the first quarter.
Jordan Moore (Duke)
Murphy connected with Jordan Moore on a 34-yard touchdown pass, putting Duke up 35-10 just before halftime.
Holden Willis (Middle Tennessee)
After the weather delay, Nicholas Vattiato threw a 15-yard touchdown pass to Holden Willis, giving the Blue Raiders a glimmer of hope at 38-17.
DaShawn Stone (Duke)
Freshman DaShawn Stone intercepted a pass, stopping a Middle Tennessee offensive drive and securing Duke's control in the final quarter.
Star Thomas (Duke)
Capitalizing on the interception by Stone, Thomas rushed for his second 1-yard touchdown of the game, sealing the score at 45-17.
Maalik Murphy (Duke, QB)
Completed 14 of 21 passes for 216 yards, three touchdowns, leading Duke's offense and averaging an impressive 15.4 yards per pass.
Nicky Dalmolin (Duke, TE)
A major target for Murphy, catching four passes for 100 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-tying 71-yard reception.
Jaiden Credle (Middle Tennessee, RB)
Stood out with 12 carries for 125 yards and one touchdown, including an early 66-yard dash that electrified the crowd.
Star Thomas (Duke, RB)
Achieved his second consecutive 100-yard rushing game, totaling 111 yards and two touchdowns, providing essential scoring power.
Alex Howard (Duke, LB)
The anchor of Duke's defense, recording 1.5 sacks, 3.5 tackles for loss, and a crucial fumble recovery, setting the tone defensively.
DaShawn Stone (Duke, DB)
Filled in admirably at safety with an interception and fumble recovery, crucial in turning the tide in Duke's favor.
Duke Blue Devils
28
7
3
7
45
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders
10
0
7
0
17
