After a close and hard fought game last weekend at Wallace Wade, Duke hits the road to take on the Hurricanes of Miami who stopped a 3-game skid versus the Hokies a week ago. Yes, Duke has been competitive – turning heads around the ACC, but being formable has been it. The Blue Devils are looking for a statement win this weekend and a win at Miami would certainly rectify recent memory.
Here’s how Duke can leave Miami Gardens with a dub.
Win 3rd Down
Duke has struggled getting off the field on 3rd down this season. Hurricane quarterbacks Riley Leonard and Tyler Van Dyke may both throw for over 350 yards. Duke yields 260.6 yards per game in the air to Miami’s 248.7. Leonard has thrown over 1,500 yards (9 touchdowns to 4 interceptions) and Van Dyke has over 1,600 yards (9 touchdowns to 4 interceptions). The Blue Devils will have to slow down Miami’s passing game if they want to leave victorious.
Leave the Past in the Past
In the last two matchups between the schools Miami has outscored Duke 95-10. This isn’t your infamous 90’s Hurricanes team and Duke isn’t a walkover under Coach Elko. The Blue Devils have to bring the toughness to Saturday’s matchcup.
Getting over the Hump
The Hurricanes had 17 penalties a week ago. You won’t win many games with self- inflicting penalties. Duke averages over 5.5 yards per carry on the ground and has one of the best rushing attacks in the ACC that features dual threat Riley Leonard, Jordan Waters, and Jaylen Coleman. The Blue Devils have to get the ground game going and hope the Hurricanes continue to attract the yellow flag.