Duke defense stifles Illinois in second half for close win
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 14, 2026, 3:09 PM
Last updated Sep 14, 2026
Duke Blue Devils secured a 31-27 victory over Illinois on September 14, supported by a dominant defensive performance in the second half. After allowing 24 points in the first two quarters, the Blue Devils limited Illinois to just three points, highlighted by Evan Smith's key interception. Running back Nate Sheppard and quarterback Walker Eget contributed to the offense, helping Duke improve to 2-0. Head coach Manny Diaz praised the defense for its adjustments and performance after halftime. Next week, Duke prepares for its first ACC matchup against Stanford.
- •Duke allowed only three points to Illinois in the second half.
- •Evan Smith recorded a crucial interception in the fourth quarter.
- •Nate Sheppard and Walker Eget were key offensive contributors.
- •Duke improves to 2-0 after this road victory.
- •Duke faces Stanford in their first ACC matchup next week.
- 3:09 PMYahoo Sports — Manny Diaz speaks after Duke's defense shuts down Illinois in second half
"The Duke Blue Devils shut down Illinois in the second half, holding them to only three points and preserving a 31-27 win.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
College Sports•Sep 14, 2026, 4:00 PMJedd Fisch Touches on Washington Football's Offensive Woes
College Sports•Sep 14, 2026, 4:00 PMThe Good, The Bad and The Ugly vs. LA Tech
NCAAM•Sep 14, 2026, 4:00 PMBig East releases conference schedule for Xavier men's basketball
NCAAF•Sep 14, 2026, 4:00 PMBoise State and Colorado State lead the way
NCAAF•Sep 14, 2026, 3:59 PMWhere Louisville football lands in Week 3 US LBM Coaches Poll, AP Top 25
NCAAF•Sep 14, 2026, 3:58 PMTop 10 transfer portal impact players of Week 2