Can the Dukes Still Make the FCS Playoffs?
Duquesne's postseason hopes now hang in the balance after a stunning 21-14 loss to Central Connecticut State in the NEC Championship Game. The Dukes, ranked #19 heading into the matchup, came up short in New Britain, relinquishing the conference's automatic bid to the Blue Devils. It was a game few saw coming, defined by uncharacteristic errors and a CCSU defense that made history. Still, Duquesne’s impressive season and strong overall record leave the door open for a potential at-large bid to the FCS playoffs.
The loss to CCSU was just the third for Duquesne this season, but it may carry the most weight. Their other two losses came against FBS competition, where the Dukes were understandably overmatched. Against CCSU, however, it was their own mistakes that told the story. The Dukes turned the ball over eight times, including seven interceptions by quarterback Darius Perrantes. No team, no matter how talented, can expect to win under such circumstances. Yet the Dukes were still within striking distance late in the game, a testament to their talent and determination.
While football is a binary sport where wins and losses define a season, Duquesne’s body of work deserves careful consideration. The Dukes are 7-1 against FCS opponents this year, including a notable nonconference victory over Youngstown State, an MVFC team known for its competitiveness. That win may prove critical as the playoff selection committee evaluates the resumes of bubble teams. The Dukes’ consistent ranking in the FCS top 25 also underscores their quality. Few teams in the playoff conversation can claim a near-perfect record against FCS competition.
However, there are challenges that could complicate Duquesne’s path to the postseason. Chief among them is their strength of schedule, ranked 102nd in the FCS. Outside of the Youngstown State victory, the Dukes’ schedule lacked marquee matchups that would bolster their case against teams from deeper conferences like the CAA or MVFC. Additionally, the loss to CCSU could be viewed as a blemish, particularly given the nature of the defeat. Seven interceptions in a championship game may lead the committee to question whether Duquesne is capable of handling playoff-caliber competition.
Despite these obstacles, Duquesne has compelling arguments in its favor. Their three losses, including two against FBS opponents, offer important context. The loss to CCSU, though disappointing, came against a tenacious Blue Devils squad that seized its moment with a record-breaking defensive performance. Moreover, Duquesne’s ability to dominate most of their FCS opponents throughout the season highlights their potential to compete on a national stage.
As the selection committee meets to determine the 24-team playoff field, Duquesne will be hoping that its strengths outweigh its shortcomings. The Dukes’ resume, featuring a strong record against FCS opponents and a signature win over Youngstown State, may be enough to earn them one of the coveted at-large bids. Their ranking and overall consistency throughout the year further bolster their case.
Ultimately, Duquesne’s fate is in the hands of the committee. If they are selected, it will be a chance to prove that the loss to CCSU was an anomaly rather than a reflection of the team’s true capabilities. If not, the Dukes will have to look back on an otherwise excellent season and wonder what might have been if not for that one difficult day in New Britain.
