DURHAM, N.C. — Making his second start of the season, Pitt running back Darrin Hall exploded for three touchdowns as the Panthers upset Duke, 24-17 at Wallace Wade Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Hall scored on school-record 92-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, which set a new Pitt record for longest scrimmage run. He also connected on a 79-yard strike in the first quarter. Both of those carries came on the first play of their drives, allowing the Panthers to score in quick-strike fashion.
His third touchdown came at the end of a lengthy drive, as his 4-yard scamper capped a seven-play, 95-yard scoring drive that gave the Panthers the lead for good with 10:48 to play in the fourth quarter.
Hall finished with 254 rushing yards on 24 carries, the most by a Pitt running back since James Conner put up 263 against the same Blue Devils in 2014.
Pitt’s defense played well throughout the game. They gave up just three points in the first half the fewest a Pitt defense under Pat Narduzzi has allowed against a Power Five opponent.
They also came up with two big turnovers. Avonte Maddox had a sack and forced fumble in the first half that was recovered by Kam Carter and Jordan Whitehead intercepted a tipped pass to finish off Duke’s final offensive possession.
Pitt played most of the second half without Maddox, a senior captain and the outspoken leader of the defense. He was injured his right arm breaking up a pass in the third quarter and did not return. He was seen on the sideline with his arm in a sling.
Ben DiNucci started and played throughout, but was largely ineffective passing. He finished 8 of 18 for 149 yards. Kenny Pickett did not play.
