Duke Football Dominates Temple in Week 1 Battle

Durham, NC- On Friday night, September 1st, at Wallace Wade Stadium, Duke’s football 2022 season officially began when the Blue Devils beat Temple in a Week 1 game with a score of 30-0. After a 3-9 season, Mike Elko took over a school that had fired longtime head coach David Cutcliffe. With Stan Drayton joining Temple after 28 years as an assistant, the opposing sideline also has a first-year head coach. 

To start the game, the Blue Devil’s energy as well as their crowd were high at the start of the game compared to last season after a switch in the head coaching staff earlier this year. In the after-game press conference, head coach, Elko, states  “So many thanks to Duke’s student body. That was awesome. When we walked out of that tunnel, they played a big role to start the game and our players notice that. There is no question that they elevated our energy.” 

A big pass play from quarterback, Riley Lenoard, to Jordan Moore leads to a 2-yard rushing touchdown from running back, Jaylen Coleman. Coleman scored the first touchdown of the season bringing his team to lead the first quarter 7-0 with 8:46 to go till the 2nd quarter. Leonard finished the first half 15-for-17 on passing attempts with 239 yards and 2 touchdowns.  Coleman finished the half with 6 rushes for 32 yards and a touchdown.

Both teams’ defense to start the first half was very competitive as each team took turns trying to get stops. The Blue Devils were able to lead through with their offense as just two first downs and 50 yards were gained on 24 plays for the Owls, who trailed 24-0 at the half.  Linebacker, Dorian Mausi, finished the game with 6 tackles for the Blue Devils.

To start out the 2nd half, Charlie Ham nails a field goal from 37 yards out leading Duke 27-0 to end the 3rd quarter. Not too long after to start the 4th quarter, Ham kicks a 38-yard field goal at the beginning of the 4th quarter after a great play from Cam Dillon, who caused a fumble while Datrone Young recovers the ball. The Blue Devils maintain their lead of 30-0 to end the win. Leonardo finished the win with 24 out of 30 complete passes.

The Blue Devils will compete against North Carolina A&T on September 17th back at the Wallace Wade Stadium.