Keys to the Duke Blue Devils Becoming 4-0

The Duke Blue Devils come into this Saturday’s game against William & Mary 3-0, while William & Mary is 2-2. The game is Saturday, Sept. 26 at 3:30 p.m. ET at Wallace Wade Stadium. Four key reasons can help guarantee the Blue Devils’ success in becoming 4-0.

First, Duke should avoid letting William & Mary hang around early. Manny Diaz specifically emphasized avoiding the slow starts Duke has had against FCS opponents in recent years. Even though the Blue Devils’ record against FCS opponents is 22-0, William & Mary looks to become the first FCS program to beat Duke.

Second, let Nate Sheppard establish the run; he has already rushed for 528 yards on 82 carries and 5 touchdowns this season, so getting him involved early can help Duke control the line of scrimmage and open up the passing game.

Third, Duke should protect their quarterback, Walker Eget; he has thrown for 539 yards and 4 touchdowns so far. Duke should use the running game and quick, efficient throws to keep William & Mary’s defense from creating pressure and disrupting the offense.

Fourth, Duke should win the turnover and field-position battles because it doesn’t need to get overly aggressive. If the Blue Devils play clean football, limit penalties, create a couple of turnovers, and consistently give the offense good field position, they can control the game. If they play the same physical style of defense they used in the second half last week against Stanford, they’ll be in a good position. William & Mary is averaging 26 points per game, so Duke’s defense can’t treat this as a guaranteed easy afternoon. Duke has allowed only 12.3 points per game so far, and maintaining that defensive standard will be important.