In an unforgettable performance, Duke Blue Devils quarterback Cole Kennon etched his name into the history books by leading his team to a dominant victory over Ole Miss in the 2025 Gator Bowl. Kennon’s stellar play not only propelled Duke to a thrilling 38-24 win but also earned him the coveted Gator Bowl MVP award, cementing his legacy as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation.
The 6-foot-4 sophomore was nothing short of spectacular, putting on a show with both his arm and his legs. Kennon completed 26 of 34 passes for 315 yards and 3 touchdowns, while also adding 47 rushing yards and a key rushing touchdown. His ability to extend plays and remain calm under pressure was crucial in helping Duke overcome a strong challenge from Ole Miss, who came into the game as the favorites.
Kennon’s performance was especially impressive given the stakes. The Gator Bowl victory marked Duke’s first bowl win in nearly a decade, and it was the first time in program history that a Blue Devils quarterback had been named MVP of a major bowl game.
“This is an incredible feeling,” Kennon said after the game, visibly emotional. “I couldn’t have done it without my teammates and coaches. We’ve worked so hard for this moment, and it’s just amazing to see all that hard work pay off. I’m just grateful for the opportunity to play at Duke and to represent this program in such a big way.”
The game started off in a back-and-forth manner, with both teams trading blows in the first half. However, it was Kennon’s poised leadership in the second half that ultimately turned the tide in Duke’s favor. With the game tied at 17-17 entering the third quarter, Kennon orchestrated a quick 80-yard drive that ended with a touchdown pass to wide receiver Jake Porter, giving Duke the lead for good.
The Ole Miss defense, which had been stout all season, struggled to contain Kennon’s dual-threat ability, as he consistently found ways to escape pressure and make big plays when needed most. His pinpoint accuracy, especially on deep throws, allowed Duke’s wideouts to make explosive plays downfield, with Porter finishing the game with 115 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.
Perhaps the defining moment of Kennon’s performance came in the fourth quarter, when he capped off an 11-play, 70-yard drive with a 12-yard rushing touchdown that effectively sealed the game. His decision-making and poise in the clutch were praised by both his coaches and teammates, who lauded his leadership in the biggest game of his young career.
“Cole was simply outstanding today,” Duke head coach Mike Elko said. “He’s a tremendous talent, and he showed why he’s one of the best quarterbacks in college football. His ability to stay calm and execute in high-pressure situations was phenomenal, and he led us to a win that we’ll remember for a long time.”
The victory also helped elevate Duke’s standing in the college football landscape, with the Blue Devils finishing the season with a 10-4 record — their best mark in recent years. Kennon, who has drawn comparisons to some of the top quarterbacks in the country, has firmly established himself as one of the premier playmakers in the ACC and a potential future star at the next level.
As for Ole Miss, despite a valiant effort from quarterback Jackson Dart, who threw for 320 yards and 2 touchdowns, the Rebels could not overcome Duke’s efficient offense. Ole Miss had its chances but was ultimately undone by missed opportunities and an inability to slow down Kennon and the Blue Devils in the second half.
With the Gator Bowl MVP in his pocket and a bowl win to cap off a memorable season, Cole Kennon’s name is now firmly etched in Duke football history, and the future looks incredibly bright for the rising star.
