Duke Football: Manny Diaz Brought to Duke for these Types of Games
- Royal Howell
- Sep 5
- 2 min read
Duke football will look to protect its home turf against arguably their toughest opponent of the season, the 11th ranked "Fighting Illini" of Illinois Saturday. The game which will be the noon showcase contest on ESPN will feature two schools with playoff aspirations, defensive pedigree and programs floating under the radar in a early season test.
Nevertheless, there were several key areas that will test the Blue Devils defensive front Saturday if they haven't corrected it's mishaps since it's decisive 45-17 win over Elon during it's opener. Yes, the second half scoring splurge put the game out of reach, however, the game was tied 10 all going into intermission and the Phoenix ran rampant on the Blue Devils for a total of 163 yards.
Yielding that amount of yards to an FBS contender is a cause for concern for Manny Diaz and his Blue Devils, who face a rushing attack of Illinois who rushed for over 200 yards last week.
By The Numbers
Darian Mensah finishing with a top 5 QBR rating amongst all power five quarterbacks according to PFF during week one showed tremendous promise of what is to come in Durham. Finishing with 389 yards, 3 TD's, including 14 straight completions, not being satisfied with his performance showed Mensah's ability to not be complacent.
Schematics
The scheme, play calling, and playmakers on the outside will be asked to start fast against a furious pass defense that shuts down explosive plays. Harvard transfer Cooper Barkate leading all receivers with 117 yards during the opener, will be asked to compliment speedster Que'Sean Brown and senior Sahmir Hagans on the outside. The chemistry showed all throughout fall camp, but it will certainly be tested against Illinois on Saturday.
If the Blue Devils can start fast, putting together consistent touchdown scoring drives, and solidify it's run game, they will have a great chance at upsetting the 11th ranked Fighting Illini at home. It's a tall task, but you brought Manny Diaz to Durham for these types of moments.
Comments