Durham, North Carolina, September 21, 2025
News Summary
Duke University claimed victory over North Carolina State University with a score of 45-33, ending NC State’s undefeated season. The game showcased standout performances from both teams, but Duke’s strong defense, forcing turnovers, was pivotal. Quarterback Darian Mensah played a key role, completing 19 of 28 passes for 269 yards and three touchdowns. Despite NC State’s strong start, Duke rallied in the second half, marking its fifth win in six matchups against the Wolfpack.
Durham, North Carolina – Duke University triumphed over North Carolina State University (NCSU) on Saturday, securing a 45-33 victory and effectively ending the Wolfpack’s remarkable undefeated season. This marked Duke’s fifth win in their last six encounters with NC State.
Entering the contest with a flawless 3-0 record, NC State was eager to extend its winning streak. However, Duke’s performance proved too formidable, particularly in the second half.
Duke quarterback Darian Mensah delivered a standout performance, successfully completing 19 of 28 passes for 269 yards and netting three touchdowns. His contributions were critical in leading the Blue Devils to victory.
On the opposing side, NC State’s QB, CJ Bailey, also made an impact with impressive stats, accumulating 364 passing yards and two touchdown passes. Unfortunately, he struggled with three interceptions and a lost fumble, which ultimately hindered the Wolfpack’s chances of maintaining their winning record.
The pivotal moment of the match came late in the second quarter when Duke linebacker Tre Freeman intercepted a pass, returning it for 67 yards and giving Duke a 21-20 advantage at halftime. Duke’s strong defensive effort, which included four forced turnovers, was instrumental in shifting the momentum of the game.
Initially, NC State had a solid lead, dominating the scoreboard with a 20-7 advantage in the first half. However, Duke rallied impressively, scoring 38 points during the final stages of the game while NC State could only muster 13 points in response.
Contributing to Duke’s scoring, running back Anderson Castle rushed for 92 yards and completed three touchdown runs, including a critical 66-yard touchdown run that bolstered Duke’s commanding lead late in the game.
NC State’s Terrell Anderson was a standout for the Wolfpack, finishing the game with six receptions totaling 166 yards and two touchdown receptions, one of which was a striking 75-yard catch on the very first possession of the game.
However, NC State’s defeat was compounded by special teams errors, including a missed extra point attempt and a blocked field goal, which ultimately contributed to their downfall in this high-stakes game.
Duke’s victory alleviated prior concerns stemming from earlier losses against Illinois and Tulane. The Blue Devils emphasized mental toughness and resilience as they approached this crucial ACC opener.
Additionally, NC State’s defensive performance was impacted by the absence of several key players due to injuries and suspensions, further complicating their efforts to fend off Duke’s aggressive offense.
The match exemplified the fierce intensity typical of Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) rivalry games, with both teams exchanging leads and maintaining a back-and-forth dynamic throughout the contest.
As Duke celebrates this noteworthy win, they position themselves strongly in their conference, while NC State will need to regroup and reassess ahead of their next challenge.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Gas Prices in South Carolina Experience Slight Increase
Duke Energy Proposes Merger of Subsidiaries to Enhance Efficiency
Duke Energy and Piedmont Natural Gas Promote Safe Digging Practices
Duke Energy Allocates $200,000 in Grants for South Carolina Seniors
Duke Energy Expands Energy Efficiency Incentives in South Carolina
Duke Energy to Sell Piedmont Natural Gas Tennessee Operations
Duke Energy Proposes New Gas-Fired Power Plant in South Carolina
Duke Health and Novant Health Partner for Healthcare Expansion in North Carolina
Duke Energy Unveils Plans for New Natural Gas Power Plant in South Carolina
Walmart and Charleston County Team Up for Hurricane Preparedness
Additional Resources
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston 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 Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
