Offense: C+
Pass: Sean Renfree followed up his 335 yard, two touchdown outing against Florida International with another solid performance, completing 26 of 43 passes for 226 yards and a touchdown. His lone interception came in the first quarter, setting up a Florida State field goal to put the Seminoles up 3-0.
Rush: Desmond Scott was solid in his first extended action since returning from his left knee injury, rushing 10 times for 66 yards. He broke for a season-high 34-yard run in the first quarter, setting up a Duke field goal that evened the game, 3-3. Jay Hollingsworth rushed four times for 21 yards.
X’s and O’s: Renfree had difficulty finding his receivers downfield, averaging just over five yards per pass attempt. Connor Vernon was the lone Blue Devil receiver who was effective in navigating Florida State’s secondary, reeling in receptions of 17 and 19 yards.
Defense: D
Pass: Seminoles quarterback E.J. Manuel threw for 239 yards and two touchdowns on just 14 passing attempts.
Rush: The Blue Devils allowed 242 total rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. Florida State backs averaged 5.4 yards per carry, led by freshman Devonta Freeman, who carried the ball 19 times for 109 yards and a touchdown.
X’s and O’s: Duke’s secondary was beaten repeatedly on deep passes. Seminole receivers took advantage of their athleticism to reel in a number of passes downfield in the first quarter, the last of which, a 50-yard reception by Rodney Smith, put the Blue Devils in a 17-3 first quarter hole.
Special Teams: B
Kicker Will Snyderwine made his lone field goal attempt, a 38-yarder in the first quarter. Punter Alex King was terrific, averaging a season-high 53.1 yards on his five attempts. Duke largely contained Florida State’s kick and punt return attack.
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.