Do You Believe in Miracles? The Central Connecticut State Blue Devils Win the NEC
Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) completed an extraordinary season by defeating #19 Duquesne, 21-14, to secure the Northeast Conference (NEC) football championship. The Blue Devils, picked to finish last in the league in the preseason, shocked the conference with a dominant defense and timely offensive execution, securing their spot in the FCS playoffs.
The victory, held at CCSU’s Arute Field, capped an 8-3 season (5-1 NEC) and marked the first NEC title for the program under Coach Adam Lechtenberg, who is in his second year leading the team.
The game will be remembered for CCSU’s historic defensive performance, highlighted by an NEC record seven interceptions in one game. Duquesne quarterback Darius Perrantes, who had been instrumental in the Dukes’ success this season, struggled against a relentless Blue Devils defense.
CCSU’s secondary turned the tide repeatedly, stopping Duquesne drives and giving the Blue Devils’ offense key opportunities to control the game. In addition to the interceptions, the defense held Duquesne to a 27% third-down conversion rate and limited their running game to just 62 yards on 22 carries.
The defensive stand was particularly crucial in the fourth quarter, where the Blue Devils denied Duquesne any opportunity to rally.
On offense, CCSU relied on the consistent play of running back Elijah Howard. Howard carried the ball 25 times for 110 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winning six-yard run in the fourth quarter. His ability to break tackles and gain tough yards kept the Blue Devils in control during critical moments.
Quarterback Brady Olson added 216 passing yards on 15 completions, spreading the ball among multiple targets. Wide receiver Isaac Boston led the team with six receptions for 68 yards, while Michael Plaskon contributed 52 yards on three catches.
Though Olson did not throw a touchdown, his composure in key moments helped sustain drives, particularly during a quick two-minute drill at the end of the first half that set up a field goal.
Special teams also played a pivotal role. Kicker Jack Barnum was a perfect 2-for-2, hitting field goals from 47 and 24 yards to provide CCSU with early points. His second field goal, coming just before halftime, gave the Blue Devils a 13-7 lead and momentum heading into the locker room.
The turning point of the game came in the fourth quarter. After forcing yet another turnover, CCSU drove 32 yards in just over a minute, capped by Howard’s second touchdown run. A successful two-point conversion extended the lead to 21-14, putting the game out of reach.
CCSU’s season was defined by an unawavering belief in their ability to win. Despite being picked to finish last in the NEC, the Blue Devils consistently exceeded expectations en route to the title game, winning in improbable ways again and again.
The team’s upset of Duquesne, a nationally ranked opponent with an impressive offense, underscored their ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations.
With the NEC title in hand, CCSU now moves on to the FCS playoffs. Their victory over Duquesne provides momentum and a clear signal that they are capable of competing with some of the best teams in the nation.
The Blue Devils enter the playoffs with confidence, knowing they have already achieved a historic season. Their combination of a record-breaking defense, balanced offense, and disciplined execution makes them a team to watch in the postseason.
The road ahead will not be easy, but CCSU has already proven it can overcome the odds. Their improbable journey continues, and their next chapter awaits in the FCS playoffs.
