On Saturday, Duke's freshman quarterback, Grayson Loftis, showcased his talent by throwing for an impressive 183 yards. The Blue Devils secured a victorious season with a 17-10 triumph over Troy, thanks in large part to a stellar defensive performance.
Facing off against the Sun Belt Conference champion, Troy, with an 11-3 record, Duke's 8-5 lineup, depleted by transfer portal departures, managed to stifle the Trojans' attempts to maintain an 11-game winning streak for the second consecutive year. The lack of offensive rhythm for the Trojans was not entirely unexpected, considering both teams played under interim coaches. Duke's Trooper Taylor stepped in for the Texas A&M-bound Mike Elko, while Troy's defensive coordinator, Greg Gasparato, assumed the role when Jon Sumrall took a job at Tulane. Both programs have already secured replacements, with former Miami coach Manny Diaz taking over at Duke and Notre Dame offensive coordinator Gerad Parker assuming the reins at Troy.
Since stepping in for the injured Riley Leonard, who later transferred to Notre Dame, Loftis had been effective in his understudy role. In four starts, he secured victories against Wake Forest and Pitt, with narrow losses to North Carolina and Virginia. Against Troy, Loftis led Duke to a 17-3 fourth-quarter lead, seemingly putting the game out of reach. However, an interception deep in Trojans territory allowed Troy to respond with an 87-yard drive, cutting the margin to a single score. Duke's victory was sealed with a final defensive stop when Jeremiah
Lewis intercepted Gunnar Watson with just over a minute remaining in the game. Watson, a senior for Troy, finished the game with 230 yards passing.
Despite entering the Birmingham Bowl without their former head coach, starting quarterback, and backup quarterback, Duke's 17-10 win underscored the team's resilience, particularly on the defensive end. The Blue
Devils shut out Troy for the first two quarters and most of the third, conceding only a field goal with 6:48 left in the game. Loftis and the offense added three more points early in the fourth, securing a 17-3 lead. Although a late interception allowed Troy to narrow the margin to 17-10 with 5:54 remaining, Duke's defense stood strong. Another interception by Lewis with 1:22 left on the clock ensured Duke's fifth straight bowl victory as they ran out the remaining time.
Reflecting on the program's journey, from a point where opponents doubted its legitimacy to a team demonstrating immense heart and character, Duke's success in the Birmingham Bowl speaks volumes. Under two consecutive coaches, the program has overcome challenges and displayed significant improvement. As they look to the future, there are no guarantees, but the Blue Devils have certainly earned respect for their resilience and determination.
A special acknowledgment goes to interim coach Trooper Taylor for his commendable work, steering the team through a successful bowl appearance. His efforts have not gone unnoticed, and there's hope that he will soon secure a permanent head coaching position.
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