In its first conference game of the year, Duke will take on Miami in hopes of remaining undefeated and beating the Hurricanes in back-to-back seasons. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. at Sun Life Stadium. Here are the keys to tonight’s game.
Improve Run Defense
Last week, Tulane’s only offensive success came on the ground, where the Green Wave recorded 215 yards and two touchdowns. The Blue Devils must have a much better day defending the run in order to have a chance against a Miami team that features Heisman Trophy dark horse candidate Duke Johnson running behind imposing offensive linemen Shane McDermott and Ereck Flowers.
Duke's young linebackers—true freshman Zavier Carmichael and redshirt freshman Chris Holmes—must build on the valuable experience they gained early in the season and the defensive line will have to step up without Dezmond Johnson.
Duke Johnson was hurt during the Blue Devils' 48-30 victory against the Hurricanes last year. He could be the difference this year unless Duke's run defense is consistent throughout the game.
Involve more receivers
In week three against Kansas, wide receivers Isaac Blakeney and Max McCaffrey combined for 11 receptions and 117 yards, while Jamison Crowder was held to just two receptions for 14 yards.
Week four was a very different story as Crowder went for 119 yards on six receptions and Blakeney and McCaffrey combined for just five receptions and 31 yards.
As ACC play gets underway, redshirt senior quarterback Anthony Boone needs to make the offense more dynamic and keep defenses honest by targeting all of his receivers. Spreading the ball will be especially important against Miami with the Hurricanes likely looking to key on the run after allowing 343 yards on the ground last week at Nebraska.
Continue to get help from special teams
Last week, Duke was able to capitalize on Tulane’s special teams miscues. Two high snaps led to a safety and a Joseph Ajeigbe 12-yard touchdown return and one of Will Monday’s punts was mishandled, fumbled and recovered by tight end David Reeves, leading to great field position and an offensive score. In order to put itself in a position to win on the road against Miami, the Blue Devils will need more of the same quality play it has received from kicker Ross Martin, Monday, and kickoff specialist Jack Willoughby all season. Duke's kickoff coverage team has also struggled at times this season, so that is something to keep an eye on Saturday night when quick momentum shifts could be the difference in the game.
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.