OFFENSE DEFENSE

Duke hired defensive-minded Mike Elko last season, and suddenly the offense was markedly better. Ball security was the prevailing message and the players received it wholeheartedly, giving up just 10 turnovers. The offensive line allowed just 17 sacks, which led the ACC. Quarterback Riley Leonard was asked to eliminate mistakes and manage the offense. Leonard did all that and then some, leading the team in rushing with 699 yards and 13 touchdowns on a team-high 124 carries. He threw for 2,967 yards and expects to improve all facets of his game this season. The offensive line should be as solid this season with a few key additions through the portal. Jordan Waters returns and will likely surpass Leonard’s rushing total this season. The two leading receivers from 2022 return. Jalon Calhoun and Jordan Moore combined to catch 122 passes for 1,529 yards and nine TDs.

The Duke defense was absolutely horrendous in 2020 and 2021. But 2022 was a new dawning for the defense and teams had trouble running and throwing against this unit. The Blue Devils also forced mistakes, recovering 16 fumbles and snagging 10 interceptions. Tackle DeWayne Carter is a stud in the middle. He’s as good as any in the conference and dominates even though he commands double-team blocks on almost every snap. He made 11 stops behind the line and forced three fumbles. The secondary is the strength of the unit and improved with the addition of corners Al Blades Jr. and Myles Jones through the portal. Brandon Johnson will line up all over the field and safety Jaylen Stinson is superb. Chandler Rivers is an outstanding cover corner. Linebackers Cam Dillon and Dorian Mausi seem to improve every game.

Special Teams

Special Teams

2023 Schedule Newcomers

Payton Jones, RB — Jones may have trouble getting reps behind Jordan Waters and Jacquez Moore, but the freshman showed off his skills with 17 carries for 61 yards in the spring game.

Myles Jones, CB — The veteran corner enrolled at Texas A&M in 2017 (29 starts) and has played in four bowl games.

Al Blades Jr., CB — Transfer from Miami will see the field early.

Jake Hornibrook, T — The experienced tackle from NC State will solidify the offensive line.