WS Chronicle

Duke University got the best of North Carolina Central University during the Sept. 8 Bull City Gridiron Classic. The Blue Devils, playing at their Wallace Wade Stadium, beat the Eagles 54-17.

NCCU will have several more times to redeem itself. Officials from both Durham schools have announced that the Bull City Gridiron Classic will be played in 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2017 at Duke.

“We are extremely excited about our extended contact with Duke University,” said NCCU Director of Athletics Dr. Ingrid Wicker-McCree.  “This is a great opportunity to showcase two of Durham’s finest universities on the gridiron for the next few years.  The camaraderie that has been established through current collaborative academic and community efforts between Duke and NCCU, will be further enhanced by the continuing opportunity for our students, fans, and alumni to fellowship and cheer their team on during this multi-year event.”

Separated by approximately three miles, Duke and NCCU had met just once before the most recent game. The Blue Devils posted a 49-14 victory on Sept. 26, 2009.

“Without question, our continuing football series with N.C. Central – the Bull City Gridiron Classic – underscores an exciting relationship for both institutions and the greater Durham community,” said Duke Vice President and Director of Athletics Kevin White.  “Bringing the two campuses together in this fashion has tremendous value, and we are just thrilled to participate in this meaningful partnership.  We look forward to many more years of exciting football with our Durham neighbors.”