Dukes win 18th straight home opener, 55-14depth

A football player wearing a dark uniform with the number 6 runs towards the end zone while being pursued by an opponent in a light uniform. Spectators and team members are visible in the background. — [Rebecca Jozwiak | Multimedia Editor] B.J. Alexander hauls in a pass from Tyler Riddell. Alexander scored in the contest against Lincoln.

Jack Morgan | staff writer

After a rough start to the 2025 season, Duquesne bounced back in roaring fashion, routing the Division II Lincoln University Lions at Rooney Field on Saturday afternoon by a final score of 55-14.

Quarterback Tyler Riddell was the deciding factor in the win, despite only playing one half. He matched his record for passing touchdowns in a game with five and threw for 239 yards. Riddell hooked up with wide-reciever Joey Isabella twice in the endzone in the second quarter and freshman Ryan Petras once as well.

After a frustrating season opener against Pitt at Acrisure stadium, Riddell felt confident in his team’s offensive scheme and was thrilled to play a full game on Duquesne’s terms.

“It felt good to show ourselves we can go out and do that after not being able to last week,” Riddell said. “I think it’s just important we show ourselves we can do it, and now we build confidence each week.”

Duquesne Head Coach Jerry Schmitt mentioned how efficient Riddell and the offense looked on Saturday. Riddell is a new starter for the Dukes this year, so giving him time to adjust and feel comfortable in the offense is crucial to the team’s success.

A football player wearing a blue jersey with the number 45 adjusts his helmet while standing on the field. Other players and a scoreboard are visible in the background. — [Rebecca Jozwiak | Multimedia Editor] Linebacker Dom Fusca gears up for another Lincoln offensive possession.

“I thought he was even more precise than he was last week,” Schmitt said. “He’s getting more comfortable with the offense.”

The Dukes started the party with two touchdowns in the first quarter, with B.J. Alexander snagging the first touchdown toss from Riddell and scoring from 6 yards out to open the scoring.

After a 3-and-out from the Lions, Isabella returned a punt 29 yards, setting the Dukes up in Lincoln territory at the 27. After two Sean Solomon Jr. runs, one of which being taken 24 yards to the house, the Dukes had placed the Lions in a 14-0 hole.

The second quarter was all Duquesne, scoring on all four offensive possessions and putting up a staggering 27 points in the 15-minute period. Isabella started the scoring avalanche with a 7-yard touchdown reception, but the Lions answered with their own scoring drive, making the game 21-7. The Dukes would then add 20 more points before halftime, leading to a 41-7 score at the break.

In the second half, Dukes sophomore QB Logan Kushner was given a chance to play. Kushner threw the ball efficiently, completing 6 of 7 throws for 66 yards. Lincoln kicked the second half off with a touchdown from WR Kyrie Tyson to cut the lead to 41-14 with 7:40 left in the third quarter. Petras and Dazhaun Hopkins responded to the Lions score, both recording a rushing touchdown in the following eight minutes, finishing the scoring at 55-14.

Petras had a rare opportunity on Saturday, as he got to record his first ever collegiate reception and rushing attempt. He scored on both tries, giving him an exceptional starting boost to his collegiate career.

A football player in a navy uniform celebrates while interacting with referees on the field. The background shows spectators and other players during a game. — [Rebecca Jozwiak | Multimedia Editor] Linebacker Jabari Odoemenem argues a call with an official. Odoemenem was instrumental in Duquesne’s defense on Saturday.

“When you get tackled for the first time, when you have your first catch, you can get over that hump,” Petras said. “It gives you some confidence going forward, and I feel I was able to do that today.”

The Dukes outgained the Lions by 199 and recorded 19 first downs. However, Duquesne committed 14 penalties, costing them 115 yards, including two touchdowns. Isabella had a 65-yard punt return touchdown that was called back for a block in the back, and Hopkins had another rushing touchdown erased by a holding penalty.

The contest against the Lions was Duquesne’s 2025 home opener, alongside senior recognition day. Before the game, each senior was recognized with a plaque and got pictures with Schmitt and shook hands with university President Ken Gormley and Athletic Director Dave Harper, all to congratulate them on time well spent at Duquesne.

“It was awesome,” Schmitt noted. “We recognized our seniors and their families today and it was great to have President Gormley and our [athletic director] Dave Harper out there meeting the families thanking them and appreciating everything they have been through.”

Next week, Duquesne will play host to No. 11 ranked Lehigh in a huge matchup on Saturday. Playing a highly ranked team after such a fluid game could give the Dukes the momentum they need to pitch an upset bid next week.

“I think it helps us feel better about ourselves,” Schmitt said. “We took the positives from last week. But to get the win and get a full team win, all three phases of the game, certainly we’re going to feel better about ourselves.”

Jack Morgan can be reached at morganj10@duq.edu