DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) – Haynes King put on a masterful dual-threat display, and Georgia Tech’s balanced attack proved too much for Duke as the Yellow Jackets escaped Wallace Wade
Stadium with a 27-18 victory Saturday afternoon.
King was electric for Georgia Tech, rushing for 120 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries
while completing 14 of 21 passes for 205 yards. His 32-yard scamper was the game’s
longest run, and he averaged an impressive 8.6 yards per carry.
The Yellow Jackets’ ground game dominated throughout, accumulating 171 rushing yards
compared to Duke’s 68. Malachi Hosley added a rushing touchdown and 23 yards on 11
carries, while Jamal Haynes contributed 29 yards on eight attempts.
Duke quarterback Darian Mensah had a strong performance through the air, completing 32
of 44 passes for 373 yards and two touchdowns. Wide receiver Cooper Barkate was his
primary target, hauling in 13 receptions for 172 yards.
Sahmir Hagans caught five passes for 69 yards and a touchdown, while Landen King added
three receptions for 34 yards and a score for the Blue Devils.
Despite outgaining Georgia Tech 441-376 in total yards and controlling possession for
33:29 compared to the Yellow Jackets’ 26:31, Duke couldn’t capitalize in crucial moments.
The Blue Devils converted just 3 of 5 red zone opportunities and were plagued by eight
penalties for 59 yards.
Georgia Tech’s defense came up big when it mattered, recording two sacks for 15 yards
and three tackles for loss totaling 28 yards. The Yellow Jackets forced a critical turnover
that led to six points in the first half, setting the tone early.
Duke’s rushing attack struggled to find consistency, with Nate Sheppard leading the way
with just 50 yards on 15 carries and Anderson Castle adding 32 yards on 11 attempts.
The Blue Devils exploded for 17 points in the second half, including eight in the fourth
quarter, but Georgia Tech answered with 17 of their own in the final frame to seal the
victory.
Josh Beetham provided a big spark for Georgia Tech with a 49-yard reception, while Isiah
Canion caught three passes for 56 yards, including a 30-yard gain