Duke Ends NC State Undefeated Streak With 45-33 Victory in Durham

NC State's undefeated start to the season was halted by a 45-33 loss to Duke in a high-scoring ACC matchup marked by turnovers and special teams errors. Despite generating over 500 yards of total offense and CJ Bailey throwing for 364 yards with two touchdowns, the Wolfpack's four turnovers, including a pivotal interception by Duke linebacker Tre Freeman late in the first half, swung momentum in Duke's favor. Duke quarterback Darian Mensah threw for 269 yards and three touchdowns, while running back Anderson Castle scored three rushing touchdowns, including a decisive 66-yard run late in the fourth quarter. NC State led 20-7 late in the first half, fueled by Bailey's two touchdown passes to Terrell Anderson, but Duke capitalized on critical mistakes to take a 21-20 lead into halftime and dominated the second half. Defensive lapses and special teams miscues, such as a blocked field goal and a missed extra point, contributed significantly to NC State's downfall. Duke improved to 2-2 with this win, snapping a two-game losing streak against the Wolfpack, who fell to 3-1 overall and 1-1 in ACC play.