Losing four straight and having the worst past defense in the entire ACC has been the same story, week-in and week-out, for David Cutcliffe and the Duke Blue Devils. The offense can’t put long sustained drives together and the defense can’t stop a runny nose at this juncture in the season.
Duke’s pass defense has been awful, to say the least, and after Pittsburgh quarterback Kenny Pickett lit up the Hokies defense for over 500 yards last weekend, saying this will be a tough obstacle is an understatement.
It’s more than just the pass defense; applying pressure and getting quarterback hurries all go hand-in-hand with stopping 3rd down conversions. Against Wake Forest, Duke allowed the Demon Deacons to go 12/18 on 3rd down – allowing 29 first downs and 677 total yards. That, by itself, should cause for some adjustments to be made within the program. Third down conversions were better versus Virginia, but it doesn’t help when you lose 48-0 on the road. In Duke’s last four contests the Blue Devils have given up over 2,100 yards in total offense.
Duke needs to start the game with attitude, intensity and ferocious defense – something that’s been absent for over a month. Mataeo Durant has been the bright spot for the offense, but defenses figured out the Blue Devils offensive scheme weeks ago – forcing Gunnar Holmberg and company to play catchup.
If Duke looks to end its four-game skid, the time is now. Protect your house at all cost and play with a sense of pride.
Players to Watch:
Pittsburgh Panthers:
QB Kenny Pickett
RB Rodney Hammond Jr.
WR Jordan Addison
WR Taysir Mack
DB Erick Hallett
Duke Blue Devils:
QB Gunnar Holmberg
RB Mataeo Durant
WR Jake Bobo
WR Jalon Calhoun
How to Watch:
Game time: 12:00 P.M.
Network: ACCN
Venue: Wallace Wade Stadium