Duquesne Football: A Season of Redemption and Rivalry
As the sun rises on the 2025 season for Duquesne University football, the atmosphere is electric. After a heart-wrenching loss in the previous year’s season finale, the Dukes are hungry for redemption. This year, their journey will commence not just against any opponent, but against their local rival, the University of Pittsburgh, in a highly anticipated opener at Acrisure Stadium. This game represents more than just a date on the calendar; for many players and fans, it symbolizes a fresh start and a chance to rewrite the narrative.
### The Weight of Last Season
The previous season ended with a crushing 21-14 defeat to Central Connecticut State, effectively stripping the Dukes of an outright Northeast Conference (NEC) championship and a playoff berth. As players boarded the bus for the long return trip after the game, silence engulfed them; the disappointment was palpable. Defensive back Antonio Epps recalled that bus ride as one marked by an eerie quietness, a stark reflection of the team’s emotional state.
Head Coach Jerry Schmitt, in his 21st season leading the Dukes, typically highlights resilience and the importance of learning from setbacks. However, this particular loss lingered longer than usual. “It probably took a little longer for some guys,” Schmitt remarked on air. The challenge became not just about moving on but about channeling the emotional weight of that defeat into motivation for the new season.
### New Faces, Same Goals
Transitioning into the 2025 season, the Dukes welcome Gardner-Webb transfer Tyler Riddell as their starting quarterback, succeeding All-NEC performer Darius Perrantes, who graduated. Riddell’s experience and new perspective are crucial as the team seeks to rekindle the momentum they had established during a strong conference run the previous year.
Crucially, the Dukes return 16 starters from last season, providing a solid foundation of experience and skill. This stability is a significant asset as the team gears up for the opener against a formidable Pitt squad. The Dukes have learned valuable lessons from challenging encounters with larger schools in recent years, including Florida State and West Virginia. Playing against such teams has prepared them mentally and physically for tough matchups, and it has instilled a sense of resilience within the squad.
### A Rivalry Renewed
The matchup against Pitt, a team Duquesne hasn’t faced since 1939, adds more than just competitive fire; it rejuvenates a local rivalry that had long been dormant. As players like defensive lineman A.J. Ackerman prepare for the game, there is an undeniable excitement permeating the team and the student body. “The environment is going to be loud, and it is going to be fun,” Ackerman stated, emphasizing his eagerness to participate in such an anticipated contest.
The Dukes are aware of the challenge ahead, being 37.5-point underdogs, but the excitement overrides the odds. This game represents an opportunity for the team to validate their progress and the hard work they’ve put in throughout the off-season.
### Learning From the Past
Despite their history of mixed outcomes against bigger programs, the players acknowledge the importance of these experiences. Ackerman articulated the distinct difference in the level of coaching and game consistency seen in FBS opponents compared to their FCS counterparts. Such insights are invaluable, reinforcing the necessity to capitalize on any opportunities presented, as they are infrequent.
The emotional scars from last season’s disappointing finish serve as a powerful motivator. Epps, now in his final year, asserts that the feelings from that loss “will never go away,” and he and his teammates are determined not to replicate that experience.
### Anticipation and Expectations
As the Dukes prepare for their season opener, the anticipation builds not only within the team but also among the alumni and local community. The chance to establish themselves early in the season against a well-known foe offers an avenue for proving their growth and resilience. Showcasing their abilities on such a significant stage can set a positive tone for the remainder of the season.
### Conclusion
The road ahead for Duquesne football is both challenging and promising. With the lessons learned from past experiences and the excitement surrounding the season opener against Pitt, the Dukes are poised to make a statement. Redemption is on their minds, and the desire to honor the hard work of their past efforts shines through.
Expect more than just a game on the horizon; this is an opportunity for the Dukes to redefine their identity, embrace their journey, and seek glory on the field. The overarching goal extends beyond individual games; it’s about building a legacy, fostering camaraderie, and representing Duquesne University with pride. As this season unfolds, one thing remains clear: the Dukes are ready to face the challenges ahead with grit, determination, and a renewed sense of purpose.
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This report encapsulates the journey of Duquesne football as they gear up for a pivotal season opener against Pitt while considering recent past experiences and future aspirations. The focus remains on building anticipation, fostering teamwork, and facing challenges head-on, framing it within a narrative that encourages community and motivational themes.
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