The Duquesne University Dukes (4–4, 3–1 NEC) will look to extend their three-game winning streak when they welcome the crosstown rival Robert Morris University Colonials (4–5, 2–2 NEC) to Rooney Field in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for a crucial NCAA Division I FCS matchup.
The Dukes have found their offensive rhythm at just the right time, while the Colonials are looking to bounce back from a lopsided defeat and keep their conference hopes alive.
Duquesne offense firing on all cylinders
The Dukes have scored at least 40 points in consecutive Northeast Conference games for the first time since joining the league in 2008.
Quarterback Carson Camp has been the driving force behind that surge.
In last week’s 41–14 road victory over New Haven, Camp accounted for all six Duquesne touchdowns, throwing for three and rushing for three more. He completed 16 of 23 passes for a season-high 291 yards, earning NEC Offensive Player of the Week honors.
Receiver Ryan Petras was equally impressive, hauling in eight passes for 153 yards and three touchdowns.
The Dukes piled up 488 yards of total offense while holding New Haven to just 255.
Watch live. NCAA Div. 1 FCS: Robert Morris Colonials @ Duquesne Dukes, Nov. 7, 18:00 CET (6 pm,12 noon ET)
Robert Morris brings dangerous passing attack
Despite last week’s 49–14 loss to Central Connecticut State, the Colonials possess one of the conference’s most productive passing offenses.
Quarterback Carson Haggard has thrown for 2,159 yards and a league-leading 19 touchdowns against seven interceptions. His 239.9 passing yards per game rank among the best in the FCS.
Against Central Connecticut, Haggard threw for 227 yards and a touchdown, while Cooper Panteck added 101 yards and another score.
Receiver Noah Schaerli contributed four catches for 88 yards and two touchdowns.
However, Robert Morris finished with minus-nine rushing yards, highlighting a serious concern heading into Saturday’s contest.
A fascinating defensive matchup
The Duquesne defense could provide the biggest obstacle for Haggard.
The Dukes lead the NEC and rank among the nation’s top 15 in passing defense, allowing just 177.3 yards per game.
They have also forced seven turnovers during their three-game winning streak, including three in each of their last two contests.
For Robert Morris, linebacker Amanuel Dickson has been a tackling machine, recording 97 stops this season. His 10.8 tackles per game rank fourth nationally in the FCS.
Rivalry history favors the Dukes
The rivalry dates back to 1994, with Duquesne holding a 15–8 advantage.
The Dukes have won eight of the last nine meetings, including last season’s dramatic 20–17 victory on Matt Clark’s field goal as time expired.
Robert Morris has struggled at Rooney Field, posting a 2–10 road record against its rival. Its last victory there came in 1996.
With Duquesne riding a three-game winning streak and Robert Morris searching for answers, the home team enters as the favorite. But rivalry games have a habit of producing surprises, particularly when both teams have plenty to play for in the NEC standings.