Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Duke’s Late Fake Field Goal Sinks UNC, Clinches Bowl Eligibility

The 32-25 defeat leaves Bill Belichick’s Tar Heels 4-7 with only a long-shot APR route to postseason play.

Overview

  • Holder Kade Reynoldson flipped to kicker Todd Pelino for a 26-yard gain to the 1-yard line, setting up Anderson Castle’s go-ahead touchdown with 2:18 left, and Duke converted the two-point try for a 32-25 lead.
  • The Blue Devils moved to 6-5 (5-2 ACC), kept the Victory Bell, and sealed the win with a defensive stop on UNC’s final series.
  • Castle scored three 1-yard rushing touchdowns as Duke powered for 177 rushing yards on 43 attempts.
  • UNC’s lack of discipline proved costly with 12 penalties for 103 yards while Duke converted five of six fourth-down tries.
  • Quarterback Gio Lopez went 21-of-27 for 204 yards with passing and rushing scores for UNC, which must beat NC State to reach 5-7 and could then be considered via APR if bowls lack enough six-win teams.