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Did Duke Blue Devils' Defense Dominate California Golden Bears at California Memorial Stadium?

The Duke Blue Devils improved their record to 4-2 after a commanding performance against the California Golden Bears, who also stand at 4-2. The game concluded with a decisive score of 45-21 in favor of the visiting team, showcasing the Blue Devils' defensive prowess and offensive efficiency.


Oct 22, 2022; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Duke Blue Devils quarterback Riley Leonard (13) celebrates with offensive lineman Justin Pickett (77) after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

First Quarter


The opening quarter saw both teams trading blows, with the home team taking an early lead. The Golden Bears managed to put up 14 points on the board while the Blue Devils responded with a touchdown of their own. Despite trailing initially, Duke's defense began setting the tone for what would be a dominant performance throughout the game.


Second Quarter


In what can only be described as one of the game-changing plays Duke Blue Devils vs California Golden Bears, Darian Mensah led his team to an impressive second quarter. Mensah completed 22 out of his 30 pass attempts for a total of 265 yards and two touchdowns without any interceptions. This offensive surge was complemented by Nate Sheppard's standout rushing effort, contributing two touchdowns and accumulating 91 yards on just twelve carries.


Third Quarter


The third quarter was marked by strong defensive efforts from both sides as neither team managed to score any points. However, it was during this period that Duke's defense truly shined by maintaining pressure on Cal’s offense through strategic sacks and interceptions. Elliott Schaper played a pivotal role in this defensive stand with his two sacks and an interception that halted Cal’s momentum.


Fourth Quarter


Duke sealed their victory in the final quarter by adding another fourteen points while keeping Cal scoreless once again. The relentless pressure from players like Vincent Anthony Jr., who recorded one-and-a-half sacks along with multiple quarterback hits, ensured that Cal could not mount any significant comeback attempts.


This comprehensive post game analysis highlights how crucial turnovers were in shaping this matchup; four interceptions thrown by Cal proved costly against such an opportunistic opponent like Duke whose defense capitalized effectively each time they had possession changes occur within short field positions or red zone opportunities alike!


As fans eagerly await more action-packed encounters ahead - including next week’s clash between these very same squads when Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets visit Brooks Field at Wallace Wade Stadium (Durham) scheduled October eighteenth starting promptly one o'clock Eastern Daylight Time – make sure you tune into your favorite sports network channels so you don't miss out witnessing firsthand all excitement unfold live right before eyes!


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