Duke Football Secures Victory Over Wake Forest, Eyes ACC Championship Game

Duke Blue Devils concluded their regular season with a decisive 49-32 victory against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Wallace Wade Stadium on November 29, 2025. The win improved Duke's overall record to 7-5 and 6-2 in Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) play. The outcome leaves Duke in contention for a spot in the ACC Championship game, pending results from other games that evening.

Fayetteville Observer

Duke's offense was led by quarterback Darian Mensah, who completed 24 of 35 passes for 268 yards and two touchdowns, while also contributing a rushing touchdown. Running backs Nate Sheppard and Anderson Castle each added two rushing touchdowns, showcasing a potent ground attack that totaled five rushing scores. Duke's defense was instrumental, forcing four turnovers, including three fumbles and one interception, which they converted into 14 points.

247SportsDuke 49, Wake Forest 32: Five Critical PlaysDuke puts up 49 points on mistake-prone Wake ForestAtlantic Coast ConferenceCBS Sports

The Blue Devils established an early lead, scoring two touchdowns in the first quarter. Mensah's four-yard touchdown run capped a 75-yard drive, giving Duke a 7-0 lead. Wake Forest responded with a field goal, but Duke quickly extended their lead to 14-3 after another touchdown drive. The first half concluded with Duke leading 21-17, after Wake Forest mounted a late scoring drive, highlighted by a 20-yard touchdown pass from Robby Ashford to Karate Brenson.

247SportsDuke puts up 49 points on mistake-prone Wake ForestDuke 49, Wake Forest 32: Five Critical PlaysRecap: Turnovers Doom Deacs as Wake Falls to Duke 49-32

In the second half, Duke capitalized on Wake Forest's mistakes. After a series of turnovers by the Demon Deacons, including a fumble by Demond Claiborne and an interception thrown by Ashford, Duke scored three touchdowns in quick succession, pushing their lead to 42-25. Despite Wake Forest's attempts to rally, including a touchdown run by Ty Clark, Duke's defense held firm, preventing any further scoring threats.

Duke puts up 49 points on mistake-prone Wake Forest

Wake Forest's performance was marred by penalties and turnovers. The Demon Deacons committed eight penalties for 97 yards, which significantly hindered their offensive efforts. Coach Jake Dickert acknowledged the team's mistakes, stating, "We played maybe our worst game of the season, constantly shooting ourselves in the foot." Despite a strong individual performance from Ashford, who accounted for 386 total yards and three touchdowns, the team's inability to protect the ball proved costly.

Duke puts up 49 points on mistake-prone Wake Forest

Duke head coach Manny Diaz expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, noting their ability to execute under pressure. "We played clean football today, and that was crucial," he remarked. Conversely, Wake Forest's coach reflected on the need for improvement, emphasizing the importance of learning from the mistakes made during the game.

CBS Sports

With the victory, Duke awaits the outcomes of other games to determine their fate in the ACC Championship game. They could secure a spot if California defeats SMU later that night. Meanwhile, Wake Forest, finishing the season at 8-4, is expected to participate in a bowl game, marking a successful first season under Coach Dickert despite the disappointing finale.

Sports Illustrated

• “DURHAM – Duke kept alive its chances for an ACC championship game berth.” — On3 Sports Report

Duke puts up 49 points on mistake-prone Wake Forest

This victory not only solidifies Duke's position in the ACC but also highlights the potential for future success as they look to build on this momentum heading into the postseason.

247Sports