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100 Greatest Plays In Miami History: #73-Willie Cooper Game Winning Interception Against Duke 2006

With 13 players suspended, the Hurricanes needed every ounce of effort to defeat Duke in 2006.

Miami Hurricanes v Duke Blue Devils Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

2006 was a disastrous season for the Hurricanes. Starting off the year with grand expectations, only to stumble and fall to a 7-6 record.

In week six, Miami defeated FIU 35-0, but the game was scarred by an ugly brawl between the two teams. Because of the incident, 13 Hurricanes were suspended for Miami’s game the following week against the lowly Blue Devils of Duke.

Though UM had far more talent than Duke, the game was a nail-biter due to the Hurricanes having to play with so many backups.

It was so close that the Blue Devils had a chance to win the game with three seconds left, and the ball on Miami’s seven-yard line.

Thankfully, defensive back Willie Cooper stepped up and intercepted the ball, sealing the win for Miami.