Duke secures thrilling victory over Wake Forest with last-second touchdown

In Winston-Salem, North Carolina, on November 30, 2024, Duke University achieved a dramatic 23-17 victory against Wake Forest, concluding their regular football season on a high note. The game was particularly notable as Duke rallied back from a significant 14-point deficit in the second half, showcasing resilience and skill. Maalik Murphy, the quarterback for Duke, threw a critical 39-yard touchdown pass to Jordan Moore with no time remaining. This decisive moment capped off a thrilling drive that began after a Wake Forest punt, allowing Duke to finish the game with a flurry of excitement. The match began with Wake Forest taking control, building a 17-3 lead late in the third quarter thanks to impressive plays from Tate Carey and Matthew Dennis. However, Duke's remarkable recovery commenced when they capitalized on a fumble recovery, followed by Murphy's 2-yard rushing touchdown that leveled the score. Coach Manny Diaz highlighted the importance of this victory, emphasizing the team's mental toughness and the significant progress they made throughout the season. Duke’s victory marked their third consecutive win and solidified their position in the postseason with a record of 9-3. Murphy's performance was pivotal, completing 26 of 34 passes for a total of 235 yards, while Moore, despite earlier injury worries, contributed five receptions for 98 yards. This victory not only signifies Duke's strong showing in the Atlantic Coast Conference but also concludes the regular season on a triumphant note with the team now awaiting a bowl invitation. Conversely, Wake Forest faced disappointment as they ended the season on a low note, struggling with their last three possessions resulting in punts and ultimately concluding the season with a losing record. Looking forward, Duke's accomplishment reflects their ability to compete at a high level in college football, reinforcing the success of Coach Diaz's first season. The contrasting emotions felt by both teams epitomize the nature of sports where victories and defeats can stem from critical moments that define the season. Wake Forest will need to regroup and reflect on their performance, particularly their inability to sustain their lead during crucial stretches of play, which will be vital as they prepare for next season.