Duquesne Football: On the Brink of Back-to-Back Championships

As the final weekend of Northeast Conference football approaches, Duquesne University sits one game away from claiming its second consecutive conference title. With an unblemished 5-0 record in NEC play and an eight-game winning streak, the Dukes have firmly established themselves as the class of the league. Yet their path to this moment, and the dominance they’ve displayed along the way, is a testament to their resilience and the high level of talent throughout their roster.

The Dukes’ season began far from the comforts of Rooney Field, as they opened the year with back-to-back road games against FBS opponents. Losses to Toledo and Boston College were expected, but the experiences sharpened the team and provided invaluable preparation for the challenges ahead. Their bounce-back came in Week 3, in perhaps the most pivotal game of their season. Facing then-ranked Youngstown State on the road, Duquesne shocked the Penguins with a 28-25 victory, igniting the winning streak they carry into the NEC title-deciding matchup with Central Connecticut.

Since that upset, Duquesne has played like a team on a mission. They’ve dispatched NEC foes with precision and confidence, rarely appearing vulnerable. The exception came against Mercyhurst, when a flat performance at home resulted in a closer-than-expected 31-24 win. Otherwise, the Dukes have handled their business with authority. Their balanced offense and opportunistic defense have propelled them to an undefeated record against FCS opponents, a streak that includes victories over every NEC team they’ve faced this season.

At the heart of their success is senior quarterback Darius Perrantes, who has lived up to every expectation placed upon him as one of the NEC’s premier players. Perrantes’ 27 touchdown passes lead the league, and his ability to find the end zone has been consistent throughout the season. Last week against Wagner, he delivered a six-touchdown performance that highlighted his efficiency and playmaking ability. That outing earned Perrantes his third NEC Offensive Player of the Week honor this year and the seventh of his career, reinforcing his status as a leader and a difference-maker.

Complementing Perrantes is a potent rushing attack led by JaMario Clements. The junior running back has piled up 985 yards on the ground this season, averaging 6.8 yards per carry, with six touchdowns to his name. His consistency has been remarkable, as he has regularly set the tone for Duquesne’s offense, forcing opposing defenses to account for both the run and pass. Clements’ long runs, including an 86-yard burst earlier this year, demonstrate his ability to change games in an instant.

The Dukes’ receiving corps features a trio of reliable playmakers who give Perrantes plenty of options. Senior John Erby, whose spectacular one-handed grab against Wagner earned national attention on ESPN, leads the team with 615 receiving yards and eight touchdowns. Joey Isabella and Tedy Afful have also been key contributors, combining for 15 touchdown receptions and consistently finding ways to make big plays.

Duquesne’s defense has been just as vital to its success. While not always flashy, the unit has been effective in limiting opponents and forcing mistakes. They’ve held four opponents under 22 points this season and have consistently risen to the occasion when games hang in the balance.

Heading into Saturday’s showdown, Duquesne holds all the momentum. Their last three games, all wins, have featured dominant stretches of play, particularly on offense. Against Wagner, the Dukes posted 42 points, showing off their ability to perform even with star player Clements on the sideline. The victory over Robert Morris before that—a 31-6 thrashing—showcased the defense’s ability to stifle an opponent entirely.

Yet Duquesne is well aware of the challenge they face against Central Connecticut. The Blue Devils may have been picked to finish last in the NEC preseason poll, but their resilience and knack for pulling off dramatic victories have made them a dangerous opponent. While the Dukes have looked like the NEC’s most polished team, CCSU has built its reputation as a scrappy, never-say-die group.

For Duquesne, the formula for success has been clear all year: lean on the efficiency of Perrantes, the explosiveness of Clements, and the steady contributions of their receivers, while trusting the defense to deliver when it matters. If they stick to that plan, the Dukes will be difficult to beat.

A win on Saturday would cap an extraordinary season for Duquesne and send them back to the NCAA Tournament as NEC champions for the second straight year. The stakes are high, but this is a team that has thrived under pressure all season long. With their talent, experience, and confidence, the Dukes have every reason to believe they can finish the job.

What lies ahead is more than a championship game—it’s the culmination of a season defined by dominance and the chance to further solidify Duquesne’s place atop the NEC. One game stands between them and another banner, and the Dukes are ready to seize it.