JACKSONVILLE, Fla. --- For the 11th consecutive year, the Jacksonville Dolphins will face an elite litmus test against the Duke Blue Devils. The Dolphins and Blue Devils have played 15 times, the most played non-conference series in school history.

Last Time Out
The Dolphins got one in the win column for the first time this season, downing the Le Moyne Dolphins, 20-2 ,at Rock Stadium. The win was the largest ever in a home opener for Jacksonville and the most goals scored in a home opener in program history.

JU was led by senior Nicky Brown's seven points (2G, 5A) and a dominant showing from junior faceoff specialist Drew Rippeon. Rippeon went 11-14 from the stripe with eight ground balls, winning ASUN Defensive Player of the Week for his efforts. 

The Match-Up
Opponent: #7/#8 Duke
Head Coach: John Danowski (20th Season)
2026 Record: 3-0
2025 Record: 12-6
Players To Watch: M Aidan Maguire, A Kyle Colsey, M Max Sloat

Duke is always one of the top teams in the country, and this year's squad is no exception. Led by short-stick defensive midfielder and reigning Donald MacLaughlin National Midfielder of the Year award winner Aidan Maguire, the Blue Devils are as physical and athletic as ever on defense.

Through three games, Duke has yet to allow more than eight goals in a game. Offensively, the Blue Devils are turning to new faces including sophomore Kyle Colsey who leads the team with 14 points.

The former five-star recruit is paired with plenty of talent, including All-American midfielder Max Sloat. The Blue Devils are averaging 19.67 goals per game this season, with blowout wins over ASUN foes Bellarmine (23-8) and Utah (14-7).

One Key Stat
Faceoff Percentage (54.1%) and Save Percentage (59.2) against Ranked Teams This Season

For the Dolphins to pull the upset against Duke this weekend, it will take another star showing from their specialists. Rippeon and the faceoff unit have won over half their draws against ranked foes this season, including 50% against North Carolina two weeks ago.

Winning possessions, especially timely possessions, will be key for Jacksonville in Durham. Likewise, graduate student goalie Ryan Della Rocco has been a superstar this season, with two 15-plus save days against ranked opponents this season. When the Dolphins specialists are firing, they have a chance to compete with anyone.

Game Information
When: 12 PM
Where: Freeman Field at Koskinen Stadium (Durham, N.C. | 106 Whitford Dr)
How To Watch: ACCNX
Tickets: HERE