Duke defeats Illinois 31-27 behind Nate Sheppard's three touchdowns

Duke secured a 31-27 road victory against Illinois in Champaign on Saturday. Nate Sheppard paced the Duke offense with 147 rushing yards and three total touchdowns, including two receiving scores. The Blue Devils defense limited the Fighting Illini to three points during the second half after struggling in the opening two quarters. Head coach Manny Diaz credited the win to second-half defensive adjustments, success in special teams, and a critical fourth-quarter turnover. Duke successfully controlled the game's momentum through the middle eight minutes of the contest, scoring before and after halftime to establish control. The program now shifts focus toward opening league play next week at home.

• 3:12 PMYahoo Sports — Everything Duke HC Manny Diaz said following win vs. Illinois