GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Duke offensive linemen vs. Clemson’s defensive front. The Blue Devils have been banged up at times along the offensive front, forcing some players to shift to other spots. Clemson’s acclaimed defensive front is stocked with future NFL Draft selections. Duke’s starting offensive line could include three sophomores or redshirt sophomores, while two freshmen serve as second-stringers. Duke has a player in QB Daniel Jones capable of creating another rushing option, so perhaps that can alleviate some pressure.
DRAFT SLANT
–LB Joe Giles-Harris is one most acclaimed defenders in recent Duke history. His ability to get to ball carriers is impressive and he’ll be looking to build on a season in which he gained national recognition in 2017.
“We know what he can do,” coach David Cutcliffe said. “He can be real physical.”
Nine games into the 2018 regular season, Giles-Harris holds a career average of 9.2 tackles per game. But he missed the team’s 10th game with an injury, though he continues to lead the 2018 team with 81 tackles.
ROSTER REPORT
–S Dylan Singleton underwent surgery Sunday on a broken left ankle suffered a day earlier against North Carolina. He’s out indefinitely. With 73 tackles, the junior ranks second on the team.
–P Austin Parker has had 20 punts downed inside the 20-yard line compared to just two touchbacks this year.
–WR Aaron Young is no longer listed on the depth chart, though that doesn’t mean he’s out for the season. It’s just that his injury issues have resulted in him falling down on that list. He has played in two games this season.
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