The 2-1 Blue Devils host Troy tomorrow and will take on the Trojans at 3 p.m. at Wallace Wade Stadium. Every week throughout the football season, we’ll break down a player on each team who could be the difference-maker in the upcoming contest.
Duke: safety Deondre Singleton
Stepping in to replace injured safety Dwayne Norman, the true freshman will have a lot on his plate Saturday when Duke is tasked with slowing down explosive wide receiver Eric Thomas. Singleton played the entire second half of last week's contest against Pittsburgh once Norman went down, and head coach David Cutcliffe was impressed with the freshman's performance. Norman got burned on two deep passes in the first half, both of which went for touchdowns, but Singleton was able to step in and keep the Panthers from racking up more explosive plays in the second half. For Duke to push above .500 this weekend, Singleton will need to clamp down on Thomas and keep the Blue Devils from getting beat over the top.
Troy: quarterback Deon Anthony
The Trojans utilize a two-quarterback system, and Anthony is the leader of Troy's rushing attack. The senior leads the Trojans in both carries and yards, picking up 5.9 yards per rush this season. Troy is a more versatile team when Anthony is on the field, forcing opposing defenses to match up 11-on-11 and account for the quarterback running the football. Duke struggled with assignment football against Georgia Tech, and Anthony's running ability could allow the Trojans to beat up the Blue Devil defense early and convert in short-yardage situations. Troy won't be able to beat Duke as a one-dimensional team, but if Anthony brings his A-game, the Blue Devil defense could have some trouble early.
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