Duke football will be playing the Virginia Cavaliers this Saturday in what will be Virginia’s first game of the season. Let’s break down the matchup followed a game prediction.
Duke Offense
Duke struggled last week against Boston College. The main concern, which was likely the point of emphasis in this week’s practice, ball security. Duke had five turnovers in that game, including two in the red zone, which is what cost the Blue Devils the game. Duke must rely and commit to its run game more. I see Duke begin the game with a balanced offense and then in the second half, it doesn’t nearly run it as much as I would like to see them do so. That results in the outcome of the game to rest on to the shoulders of Chase Brice.
Duke Defense
There isn’t much the defense needs to improve on this week. It forced a turnover and got an amazing six sacks for the game. The defense was at the mercy of how many times Duke turned the ball over, which resulted in taking more snaps then needed. If the defense has a repeat performance of forcing at least one turnover and having at least four sacks, it can make enough of an impact to give Duke an opportunity to win.
Virginia Offense
Virginia will be replacing former quarterback Bryce Perkins this year with last year’s back up Brennan Armstrong. Similar to Brice, Armstrong is new to the starting quarterback role. It will be difficult for Duke to prepare for him since there isn’t a lot of tape on him. The biggest threat Duke will have to prepare for is the senior receiving duo that includes Ra’Shaun Henry and Terrell Jana. They may have a new starting quarterback this year, but they still combined for over 2,000 yards along with 12 touchdowns last season. Look for Armstrong to target them early in the game.
Virginia Defense
The Cavaliers defense was just as impressive as Duke’s was when it came to getting to the quarterback and forcing turnovers. Virginia finished last season with 46 sacks, 12 interceptions and recovered eight fumbles. Senior linebacker Zane Zandier and cornerback Nick Grant brought in two of those turnovers for one touchdown each as well. We’ll see if Duke can keep the ball and not give Virginia the opportunity to do what Zandier and Grant did last season.
Prediction
Assuming Duke can take care of the ball, I give them a good chance to win this game. It’ll be a high scoring game and Duke will have to rely on its offense to win. I see Duke winning this game against Virginia with a final score of 28-24.
