Sun Nov 30 02:20:00 UTC 2025: Duke Dominates Wake Forest, Awaits ACC Championship Fate

DURHAM, N.C. – Darian Mensah etched his name in Duke football history, breaking the program’s single-season passing touchdown record as the Blue Devils defeated Wake Forest 49-32 on Saturday. The victory keeps Duke’s (7-5, 6-2 ACC) hopes alive for a potential berth in next week’s ACC Championship game, pending other conference results.

Mensah showcased his dual-threat ability, throwing for 268 yards and a record-setting three touchdowns while also adding a rushing touchdown. Anderson Castle and Nate Sheppard each contributed two touchdowns on the ground, as Duke led wire-to-wire. Sahmir Hagans added a touchdown reception and a momentum-shifting 80-yard kickoff return.

“The game was about as we expected,” said Duke coach Manny Diaz. “It was never going to be about perfection. It was going to be about persistence.”

Wake Forest (8-4, 4-4) quarterback Robby Ashford threw for 342 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing touchdown of his own, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Demon Deacons’ four turnovers and 97 penalty yards.

“A lot of disappointment,” said Wake Forest coach Jake Dickert. “They beat us in every area of the game on offense, defense, and special teams.”

Duke’s special teams were key, including a successful fake punt in the fourth quarter. Mensah’s touchdown pass to Hagans in the third quarter secured the single-season touchdown record, bringing his total to 27 before adding another in the final minute.

Duke will now wait to see if other conference results fall in their favor, potentially earning them a spot in the ACC Championship game. Wake Forest awaits their bowl game selection.

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