Duquesne overwhelms Saint Francis 52-7 in NEC football

Joey Isabella (5) eludes Colin Douglas in route to 
one of the Dukes' touchdowns.
Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA (October 11, 2025) On homecoming weekend, at Rooney Field, the Duquesne Dukes turned up the heat and crushed the Saint Francis Red Flash, 52-7, on Saturday. 

From the very first kickoff, it was clear the Dukes meant business. Joel Kpassou raced 94 yards on the opening kickoff for a touchdown; the first opening score of that kind for Duquesne since 2014. That set the tone for a fast start.

In the first quarter alone, Duquesne piled up 28 points, tying their highest first-quarter mark as an FCS team. Quarterback Tyler Riddell was sharp, throwing four touchdown passes to four different receivers; Joey Isabella, Ryan Petras, Jermaine Johnson, and B.J. Alexander. 

In the third quarter, backup Logan Kushner also got in on the fun, connecting with Alexander. The feat was Gochis' for his first career touchdown pass.

On defense, the Dukes were relentless. They forced two turnovers, holding Saint Francis to only 165 total yards; limiting their opponents to just 45 rushing yards. Tyson Meiguez returned a fumble, forced by DJ Cerisier, 40 yards for a touchdown. TJ Jones added an interception in the second quarter, further stifling any chance of a Red Flash rally. 

By halftime, Duquesne led 45-0, marking their largest halftime advantage since joining FCS in 1993. The offense and defense both delivered dominant performances. Duquesne outgained Saint Francis 323 to 165 yards and kept the game firmly in control.

With the win, Duquesne’s record improves to 4-2 overall and 2-0 in NEC play. They have now won six of the last seven seasons after starting 2-0 in conference play. The Dukes also extended their all-time series lead over Saint Francis to 41–10, including 24-3 at home. 

Looking ahead, the Dukes hit the road for a tough stretch. They will travel to Mercyhurst next Saturday with a 6 p.m. kickoff.

Photos from the game, by Darla Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, can be viewed here.