The halftime score really should have been at a minimum 30-7, possibly more. Both interceptions were poor execution on Duke's part, there were two overthrows on plays where receivers were 2 steps behind the defender, and they came on two different series. Execute on 3 of those 4 plays and Duke wins. Very winnable game. As DD stated, the sequence at the end of the game was brutal. Never has momentum shifted so drastically so quickly. It sealed the fate, and rocked the confidence of Duke. I blame the second half solely on a deflated, shell-shocked team. I disagree strongly that it was superior size and athletic ability of the opponent. Hogwash.
It would also have helped to have available all of our injured guys, but that is another story.
Parting shot: The hit on Renfree was the typical VPI dirty play we have seen over the years up there. Renfree slid, was already down and in a vulnerable condition, and got creamed to the head. Should have been a flag. One of these days karma will come around...