Key Players Lead Duke to Victory Against UConn

Duke University has had a promising start to the football season, marked by three victories, each featuring a thrilling comeback in the fourth quarter. The recent success can be largely attributed to new additions to the team, including standout performances from players such as Maalik Murphy, Kendy Charles, and Alex Howard, who have made a significant impact in the initial stages of the season.

In the game against the University of Connecticut, graduate running back Star Thomas was the standout performer. Transferring from New Mexico State, Thomas delivered a dominant performance, rushing for 122 yards on 22 carries—an impressive 85.9% of the team’s total rushing yards. Previously averaging 2.7 yards per carry in earlier matches, Thomas improved significantly to 5.5 yards per carry against the Huskies.

Thomas’ performance was timely, given the absence of starting running back Jaquez Moore, sidelined with an ankle injury. As the depth of the Blue Devils’ roster was tested, Thomas, along with sophomore Peyton Jones, was tasked with leading the rushing efforts. Thomas rose admirably to the occasion.

Safety Jaylen Stinson, Thomas’ roommate, remarked, “We see him put the work in. We knew he had it in him, and we trusted him all week when it came to it.” His performance marked the first 100-yard showing for a Duke rusher this season, helping overcome previous challenges in the ground game.

Redshirt freshman wide receiver Que’Sean Brown also made notable contributions, leading Duke in every receiving category with 11 catches for 87 yards and scoring his first touchdown with a crucial 20-yard reception in the fourth quarter. His performance highlighted the potential and growth within the team’s roster.

Brown emphasized his mindset, saying, “I just had the mindset every time I get the ball that I’m trying to score a touchdown. I’m not gonna let this first guy tackle me… maybe the other guys can try to do that.” His breakout moment came after modest performances in earlier games against Elon and Northwestern.

Star Thomas and Que’Sean Brown’s strong performances illustrate Duke’s evolving offensive capabilities. Initially relying on deep throws from Maalik Murphy to receivers like Jordan Moore and Eli Pancol, the team has shown more versatility. This development provides a glimpse of the depth present both in the running game and short pass plays, offering optimism as Jaquez Moore recovers and the team’s chemistry further develops.

Fans of the Blue Devils can look forward to seeing how these new talents further integrate into the team’s strategies, as they continue to shape Duke’s identity on the football field.