Raleigh, North Carolina, September 21, 2025
News Summary
Duke University triumphed over North Carolina State University with a final score of 45-33, marking NC State’s first loss of the season. The game showcased intense competition, with pivotal plays shifting momentum towards Duke, including a crucial interception returned for a touchdown. Duke’s offensive efforts, particularly from their running back, and a solid defensive strategy led to this significant upset, highlighting the impact of turnovers and injuries on NC State’s performance.
Raleigh, North Carolina — Duke University Ends NC State’s Perfect Season with a 45-33 Victory
Duke University secured a significant victory over North Carolina State University (NCSU) with a final score of 45-33, marking their fifth win in the past six matchups against the Wolfpack. The game took place in Raleigh, North Carolina, and delivered a notable upset to NC State, which entered the game with an undefeated 3-0 record.
Key Moments and Turning Points
The game was characterized by intense back-and-forth action, with NC State initially taking an early lead. The Wolfpack led 20-7 in the first half, building on early offensive success. However, Duke’s resilience and tactical defense shifted the momentum in the second half. A pivotal moment occurred late in the second quarter when Duke linebacker Tre Freeman intercepted a pass and returned it 67 yards for a touchdown, helping the Blue Devils to take a 21-20 lead at halftime.
The game saw Duke’s offense and defense making impactful plays. Notably, Duke quarterback Darian Mensah completed 19 of 28 passes for 269 yards and three touchdowns. Meanwhile, North Carolina State quarterback CJ Bailey put forth a strong passing performance, with 364 yards and two touchdowns, but also committed three interceptions and a fumble, which heavily impacted the Wolfpack’s offensive momentum.
Offensive Highlights and Defensive Key Players
The game’s standout offensive performance came from Duke running back Anderson Castle, who rushed for 92 yards and scored three touchdowns. A highlight was a critical 66-yard touchdown run late in the game that sealed the Blue Devils’ lead. On the receiving end, NC State’s Terrell Anderson shined with six receptions for 166 yards and two touchdowns, including a remarkable 75-yard reception on the opening possession.
Defensively, Duke played a strategic game, forcing four turnovers from NC State, including the game-changing interception by Freeman and a shared effort that included a blocked field goal and a missed extra point by NC State. These miscues hampered the Wolfpack’s ability to stay competitive and had a decisive impact on the game’s outcome.
Impact of Injuries and Team Dynamics
NC State faced additional challenges due to injuries and suspensions that sidelined several key defensive players. This affected their ability to contain Duke’s offensive schemes and contributed to the late-game success for the Blue Devils. The game also underscored the importance of mental toughness for NC State, which had been undefeated prior to this match.
Background and Context
This matchup demonstrated the intensity typical of ACC rivalries, with both teams exchanging leads and momentum throughout the game. Duke’s victory signifies a turnaround after earlier losses to Illinois and Tulane, emphasizing their need to demonstrate resilience and tactical adaptation heading into their next conference games. NC State, meanwhile, saw their perfect season come to an end, highlighting the impact of injuries and turnovers on their overall performance.
Overall, the game provided a compelling display of college football rivalry, strategic plays, and the importance of turnovers and mental toughness in high-stakes matchups. It marked a pivotal moment for both programs as they progress through the season, with Duke ending NC State’s undefeated run and setting the stage for future battles within the conference.
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Author: STAFF HERE FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
