Duke has a severe turnover issue with a minus-6 turnover margin through two games and zero takeaways. Against Illinois, they committed five turnovers including a muffed punt in their own territory and a red-zone fumble by QB Darian Mensah. This ball security problem appears to be a recurring issue from last season.

After keeping the game close at halftime (trailing 14-13), Duke was completely dominated in the second half, being outscored 31-6. The team's inability to maintain competitive play for a full game and tendency to be 'architects of their own demise' with penalties and mistakes is a major red flag.

Darian Mensah showed both promise and problems, throwing for 334 yards and 2 touchdowns but also committing costly turnovers including a red-zone fumble. His connection with Andrel Anthony was effective, but the turnovers in crucial situations undermined the offensive production.

Duke's defense allowed Illinois to completely take over after halftime, giving up 287 yards and no sacks in the second half after a decent first-half performance. The inability to generate takeaways (0 in two games) puts additional pressure on an offense that's already turnover-prone.

Duke travels to face Tulane next, which will be a reunion for QB Darian Mensah with his former program. This emotional subplot, combined with Duke's current struggles with turnovers and road performance issues, could create additional challenges for the Blue Devils.

Transfer RB Kendrick Raphael had a breakout performance with 131 rushing yards and a TD on 7.3 YPC, a massive improvement from his 37-yard debut. This establishes him as the primary ground threat and gives Cal a reliable rushing attack heading into tougher competition.

Cal's defense shut out Texas Southern from touchdowns for the first time since 2021, limiting them to 194 total yards and 3-of-14 on third downs. However, this came against an FCS opponent, so the true test of defensive improvement will come against Minnesota.

True freshman QB Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele threw for 259 yards with one interception and added a rushing TD, building on his three-TD debut last week. His continued development will be crucial as Cal faces stronger competition in Big Ten play.

Cal is 2-0 for the first time in recent memory, but coach Wilcox emphasized many areas need improvement despite the blowout win. The team's true capabilities will be tested against Minnesota, their first Power 4 opponent of the season.