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Duke Claims First ACC Title Since 1962 in Overtime Win

12/8/2025

39 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Duke University won its first outright ACC football championship since 1962, defeating Virginia 27-20 in overtime on December 6, 2025.
The Blue Devils finished 8-5 and sealed the title with a late OT touchdown pass from Duke quarterback Darian Mensah to Duke tight end Jeremiah Hasley.
Virginia would have reached the College Football Playoff with a win, but an interception by Luke Mergott of Duke altered the bid.

History

Historical Context

Established in 1953, the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) transformed college football in the Southeastern United States. Duke University, a founding member, last won an outright championship in 1962. Their recent victory over Virginia, highlighted by Luke Mergott's crucial interception, marks a significant resurgence for Duke and impacts Virginia's playoff hopes, showcasing the fierce competition within the ACC.

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Story summary

Duke University won its first outright ACC football championship since 1962, defeating Virginia 27-20 in overtime on December 6, 2025.
The Blue Devils finished 8-5 and sealed the title with a late OT touchdown pass from Duke quarterback Darian Mensah to Duke tight end Jeremiah Hasley.
Virginia would have reached the College Football Playoff with a win, but an interception by Luke Mergott of Duke altered the bid.

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