Duke Rallies Past Illinois 31-27

Duke rallied from a 10-point halftime deficit to defeat Illinois 31-27 in Champaign, improving to 2-0 and avenging last season’s 45-19 loss. Running back Nate Sheppard led the Blue Devils with 147 rushing yards, 41 receiving yards and three touchdowns, while quarterback Walker Eget completed 15 of 21 passes for 206 yards and three scores. Illinois quarterback Katin Houser and receiver Collin Dixon connected for three first-half touchdowns, but Duke’s defense adjusted after allowing 24 points before halftime and surrendered only three points in the second half. Duke overcame 11 penalties and several tense fourth-down situations, including a late defensive stop and a conversion that helped seal the road victory. Eget briefly left after appearing to injure his right knee but later returned.