The Duquesne Dukes responded from an upset loss last week in a big way this Saturday, blowing out Sacred Heart, 35-3.
Duquesne suffered an ugly loss to a previously winless Central Connecticut State team, so the Dukes were chomping at the bit to get back on Rooney Field. It was clear pretty early that Sacred Heart was overmatched, and quarterback Sean Patterson was simply too much for the Pioneers to handle.
Patterson had a strong game last week both through the air and on the ground, but he did most of his damage with the run against Sacred Heart. He found the end zone three times, breaking off touchdown runs of 14, 15, and 44 yards. His two touchdown scampers in the third quarter came within a three-minute span and sealed the win for the Dukes.
Patterson was nearly as good through the air, connecting with Gianni Carter on two more touchdown passes. Carter finished with four catches for 86 yards, providing the few big plays in the passing game.
The Duquesne defense matched the offense as well, holding Sacred Heart to just 215 yards of total offense. The Pioneers were a woeful 3-of-15 on 3rd down.
The Dukes will now try to get another winning streak going next week, when Monmouth (3-4) visits Rooney Field.