Duke Football 2013 Recruiting Thread

[pbc2]

Duke got on the board with their first two commitments in the class of 2013 today: http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/03/duke-football-lands-1st-commitment-in-class-of-2013-from-monroe-qb-quay-chambers/

QB/ATH Quay Chambers from Monroe, NC (same HS as Issac Blakeney and Jamison Crowder)
OL Austin Davis from Mansfield, TX

Duke was the first to offer both.

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

Keep the good news coming, Patrick!

[doctorhook]

Kenny Anunike was granted a medical hardship so he has two years of eligibility left.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Kenny Anunike was granted a medical hardship so he has two years of eligibility left.
I think he only has one. If he didn't get the hardship we would not see him on the field this year.

Edit...yay, I'm happily wrong..goduke said he was a junior last year. So that means he plays through 2013.

Duke defensive end Kenny Anunike was the ACC’s leader with four sacks when he went down with a season-ending knee injury last year.
The NCAA has granted Anunike a medical hardship waiver, giving him a sixth year of eligibility. In January, he was granted a fifth year due to an injury he sustained as a true freshman in 2008.
In September, he tore his ACL and MCL. Anunike will be eligible to play through the 2013 season.

http://aol.sportingnews.com/ncaa-football/story/2012-03-17/duke-kenny-anunike-granted-sixth-year-of-eligibility#ixzz1pPYDInwC

I think I got confused with the two waivers coming so close.

[Bob Green]

I think he only has one. If he didn't get the hardship we would not see him on the field this year.

Nope, he is eligible for the 2012 and 2013 seasons:

http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=22672&SPID=1843&DB_LANG=C&ATCLID=205398951&DB_OEM_ID=4200

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Kenny Anunike was granted a medical hardship so he has two years of eligibility left.
Great news for Kenny! He's one of my favorite players, and he's a really nice guy, too! :cool:

[jafarr1]

Evrett Edwards, a 5'11" CB prospect from VA, committed today. He also had offers from West Virginia, Boston College, Wake Forest, Illinois and Ohio U.

Cutcliffe is on a roll early...

[pbc2]

Evrett Edwards, a 5'11" CB prospect from VA, committed today. He also had offers from West Virginia, Boston College, Wake Forest, Illinois and Ohio U.

Cutcliffe is on a roll early...

http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/03/virginia-cb-evrett-edwards-commits-to-duke/

[Dev11]

He also had offers from West Virginia...

I think its generally hard to judge how good recruits are by scouting services, since there are just too many damn football players and they hardly play any games (in addition to the lack of AAU-type events we see with basketball), so I think it might be most worthwhile to check out our success against 'better' programs when it comes to recruiting. If this kid actually had an offer to WVU, that's a good get for us.

[pbc2]

I think its generally hard to judge how good recruits are by scouting services, since there are just too many damn football players and they hardly play any games (in addition to the lack of AAU-type events we see with basketball), so I think it might be most worthwhile to check out our success against 'better' programs when it comes to recruiting. If this kid actually had an offer to WVU, that's a good get for us.

Staff agrees with you. Also should be noted that Duke beat out two ACC schools in BC and WF. Have to beat them on the recruiting trail if we want to beat them on the field. Another reason why pulling in Duncan and Rayner on Signing Day was so big - beating out ACC rivals.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I missed this article in the Chronicle, but it's a good one. It takes a look at the impact that Peyton Manning has had on recruiting, plus mentions a few names of guys who have taken visits to Duke.

“[Growing up,] I always thought Duke was one of the worst teams in the ACC,” said Jake Kite, an uncommitted safety from Virginia in the class of 2013, who is being recruited by the Blue Devils, N.C. State, Virginia Tech and Maryland. “But now it’s amazing how they are on the upswing."

(By the way, Jake Kite just verbaled to Duke.:D)
http://www.dukechronicle.com/article/mannings-visit-changes-recruiting

[jafarr1]

(By the way, Jake Kite just verbaled to Duke.:D)
http://www.dukechronicle.com/article/mannings-visit-changes-recruiting

Jake Kite is a 6'1" safety out of Roanoke. NC State had offered, and supposedly had him as their #1 safety recruit.

His highlight video is fun to watch. Kid is fast to the ball and hits hard.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzlSrwhGzd4

[chrishoke]

I missed this article in the Chronicle, but it's a good one. It takes a look at the impact that Peyton Manning has had on recruiting, plus mentions a few names of guys who have taken visits to Duke.

(By the way, Jake Kite just verbaled to Duke.:D)
http://www.dukechronicle.com/article/mannings-visit-changes-recruiting


Jake's highlights - man, he is a hitter.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzlSrwhGzd4

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Jake Kite is a 6'1" safety out of Roanoke. NC State had offered, and supposedly had him as their #1 safety recruit.

His highlight video is fun to watch. Kid is fast to the ball and hits hard.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzlSrwhGzd4

He hits hard and he finishes his tackles! Ball carriers go down when he hits them.

[TruBlu]

Coach Cut should show this kid hitting ball carriers to our current defense. He also seems to know where the ball is in the air BEFORE it gets to the receiver.

p.s. Has anyone checked his family tree to see if he is distantly related to Mike Curtis?

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

Coach Cut should show this kid hitting ball carriers to our current defense. He also seems to know where the ball is in the air BEFORE it gets to the receiver.

p.s. Has anyone checked his family tree to see if he is distantly related to Mike Curtis?
What a name from the past!:cool:

[TruBlu]

What a name from the past!:cool:

Mike was playing when I first became a Duke fan. One of my all time favorite players!

[Indoor66]

Mike was playing when I first became a Duke fan. One of my all time favorite players!

He was a great fullback at Duke and an even better linebacker with the Baltimore Colts.

[Scorp4me]

Jake's highlights - man, he is a hitter.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pzlSrwhGzd4

Get that kid on the field now! We've had some strong secondary players, but it seems like forever since we've had a decent secondary!

[pbc2]

Duke picked up commitment #5 tonight in ATH Quay Mann: http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/04/duke-adds-5th-commitment-in-2013-from-in-state-ath-dequavais-mann/

[chrishoke]

DeQuavais Mann - a 5'9 CB from Nash County, NC just commited!!!
That's five committments for 2013 already.

[pbc2]

Statesville CB Breon Borders committed to Duke this afternoon: http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/04/statesville-cb-breon-borders-commits-to-duke/

Grew up a Duke fan. Blue Devils are putting together a nice secondary in this class. - Mann, Edwards, Kite, and Borders.

[OldPhiKap]

Statesville CB Breon Borders committed to Duke this afternoon: http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/04/statesville-cb-breon-borders-commits-to-duke/

Grew up a Duke fan. Blue Devils are putting together a nice secondary in this class. - Mann, Edwards, Kite, and Borders.

Welcome Breon!!!!!

[chrishoke]

Welcome to the Duke football family Breon!!

[pbc2]

Duke kicked off their camp season today with the first of their 1-day camps.

Here's a little more on Duke's camp schedule and other updates: BDN Football Friday (http://bit.ly/KjjkUr)

Also, here's a free article on Josh Dobbs (http://bit.ly/O3HgZA), a good-looking QB prospect who just took his 2nd trip to Durham.

[Bob Green]

It looks like we received a commitment from WR/CB Johnell Barnes:

http://247sports.com/Player/Johnell-Barnes-18635


Nike Camp WR MVP. Big-time talent.

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

It looks like we received a commitment from WR/CB Johnell Barnes:

http://247sports.com/Player/Johnell-Barnes-18635

Great news in the off season!:cool:

[pbc2]

The Blue Devils secured two commitments (http://bit.ly/L3NRUm) after camp this past weekend. Recruiting season is in full swing, and several freshmen have moved onto campus this week.

[devildeac]

It looks like we received a commitment from WR/CB Johnell Barnes:

http://247sports.com/Player/Johnell-Barnes-18635

Good pick up, Bob. Not sure I trust any of those WR from Florida, though :rolleyes:;) .

(http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=22667&SPID=1843&DB_LANG=C&DB_OEM_ID=4200&ATCLID=204766206&Q_SEASON=2012)

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

This may be the off season, but with the camps in operation, it's prime time for more good news to emerge!

[Greg_Newton]

Sterling Korona (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Sterling-Korona-140477) - 6'7 250 lb. OL that the staff has been high on. Highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1161319/sterling-korona).

Darren Andrews (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Darren-Andrews-139841) - 5'10 160 WR/CB, 3-stars by Scout and Rivals. Highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/497301/darren-andrews).


And a couple of sleepers:

Mikey Ramsay - 6'3 260 OL/LB. Highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/93226/highlights/8050375).

Gabe Brandner (http://southcarolina.247sports.com/Article/Introducing-SC-sleeper-Gabe-Brandner-76062) - 6'6 OT, supposedly ran a 4.9 40. Also looks like Clemson offered after he committed, so hopefully we keep him.

Watzone/BDN's @PatrickCacchio has been on top of it on twitter if you want more info. Eventful weekend, apparently!

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

Sterling Korona (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Sterling-Korona-140477) - 6'7 250 lb. OL that the staff has been high on. Highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1161319/sterling-korona).

Darren Andrews (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Darren-Andrews-139841) - 5'10 160 WR/CB, 3-stars by Scout and Rivals. Highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/497301/darren-andrews).


And a couple of sleepers:

Mikey Ramsay - 6'3 260 OL/LB. Highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/93226/highlights/8050375).

Gabe Brandner (http://southcarolina.247sports.com/Article/Introducing-SC-sleeper-Gabe-Brandner-76062) - 6'6 OT, supposedly ran a 4.9 40. Also looks like Clemson offered after he committed, so hopefully we keep him.

Watzone/BDN's @PatrickCacchio has been on top of it on twitter if you want more info. Eventful weekend, apparently!

Coach Cutcliffe continues to use the camps quite effectively to sort out good recruits who are coachable. I don't think this is the last such good news!

[pbc2]

Here's a quick summary: Duke Football receives 4 commitments in 24 hours (http://bit.ly/MjNa96)

Ramsay is definitely a sleeper who impressed at camp. Brandner is a guy who was lightly recruited because he plays in a private school league, but he is a legit player. I doubt Clemson will be the only competition we have for him before it's all said and done (but they might be the toughest).

As for Korona, the staff has been very high on him and were really the first to get after him, which certainly helped in the end. Andrews is another player who is under recruited, possible because he's played both CB and WR. I think he'll get a long look at WR for the Blue Devils, and he's excelled there on the camp/7v7 circuit.

[budwom]

I don't always drink beer, but when I do I prefer Sterling Korona. Stay thirsty, my friends!

[CameronBornAndBred]

Sterling Korona (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Sterling-Korona-140477) - 6'7 250 lb. OL that the staff has been high on. Highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1161319/sterling-korona).

Darren Andrews (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Darren-Andrews-139841) - 5'10 160 WR/CB, 3-stars by Scout and Rivals. Highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/497301/darren-andrews).


And a couple of sleepers:

Mikey Ramsay - 6'3 260 OL/LB. Highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/93226/highlights/8050375).

Gabe Brandner (http://southcarolina.247sports.com/Article/Introducing-SC-sleeper-Gabe-Brandner-76062) - 6'6 OT, supposedly ran a 4.9 40. Also looks like Clemson offered after he committed, so hopefully we keep him.

Watzone/BDN's @PatrickCacchio has been on top of it on twitter if you want more info. Eventful weekend, apparently!

Wow, tons of size in there.

[-bdbd]

Wow, tons of size in there.

Actually, not quite. Almost HALF a ton though... As a ton is 2,000 pounds -- so we have a few more linemen to go....

:p ;)

[chrishoke]

Actually, not quite. Almost HALF a ton though... As a ton is 2,000 pounds -- so we have a few more linemen to go....

:p ;)


And they need to be D linemen!

[pbc2]

And they need to be D linemen!

From what I've seen/heard, Ramsay may project as a DT, so it's a start. Jay Woods and De'Asian Richardson would be two big-impact DLs that Duke has made an impression on.

[pbc2]

Here's a Sterling Korona interview (http://bit.ly/NOMfAR). The 6'7" 250 pound OL is solid to Duke.

[pbc2]

New commit Gabe Brandner chose the Blue Devils over in-state Clemson, despite picking up an offer on the same day. He says he's a man of his word: http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/06/athletic-sc-ol-gabe-brandner-discusses-his-commitment-to-duke/

[Greg_Newton]

Welcome to Duke (http://jacksonville.com/sports/high-schools/2012-06-29/story/sandalwood-qb-parker-boehme-commits-duke#ixzz1zEF1ru9d), 2013 QB Parker Boehme!

3 stars on Rivals, Scout and ESPN. 6'2 225 dual-threat QB from FL who runs a 4.48, benches 350, and reportedly had an offer from Auburn and strong interest from Oregon.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7UIqvqPyVI

[roywhite]

Congrats and welcome to Parker.

Seems like a very nice pickup for Coach Cut. It will be interesting to see how Coach Cut utilizes the QB depth he's been accumulating; I've seen some talk about using 2 QB's on the field at the same time, with one under/behind center and an athletic QB lining up in the slot. Should make for some creative plays.

[devildeac]

Congrats and welcome to Parker.

Seems like a very nice pickup for Coach Cut. It will be interesting to see how Coach Cut utilizes the QB depth he's been accumulating; I've seen some talk about using 2 QB's on the field at the same time, with one under/behind center and an athletic QB lining up in the slot. Should make for some creative plays.

I thought I even read some talk from Cut about using 3 QB on the field at once.:eek:

[roywhite]

Welcome to Duke (http://jacksonville.com/sports/high-schools/2012-06-29/story/sandalwood-qb-parker-boehme-commits-duke#ixzz1zEF1ru9d), 2013 QB Parker Boehme!

3 stars on Rivals, Scout and ESPN. 6'2 225 dual-threat QB from FL who runs a 4.48, benches 350, and reportedly had an offer from Auburn and strong interest from Oregon.

Highlights: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g7UIqvqPyVI

Some nice words about Boehme in this recruiting write-up from the Winston-Salem Journal (http://www2.journalnow.com/sports/2012/jul/02/duke-nc-state-land-recruits-from-florida-ar-2402580/).


Boehme also had scholarship offers from Auburn, Oregon, Iowa State and South Florida among a group of at least 12 programs. He chose Duke because of the chance to learn under coach David Cutcliffe, who developed NFL quarterbacks such as Peyton and Eli Manning earlier in his career...

"Parker is the best football player in Jacksonville; maybe from Orlando up," Geis said. "Every once in a while he won't run a real good 40 time, but like I tell some of these coaches: 'You offered that guy, and Parker is running away from him.' Any quarterback in the state of Florida who runs for almost 1,000 yards in 8-A football is a good athlete."

[Bob Green]

QB/WR Tyler Douglas, 6'2" 190, has verballed to Duke. There is an article with details at Blue Devil Nation.

[devildeac]

QB/WR Tyler Douglas, 6'2" 190, has verballed to Duke. There is an article with details at Blue Devil Nation.

QB/WR? With a 4.5 40, sounds like he's almost fast enough to throw passes to himself but at "only" 6'2" he is probably not quite tall enough! :rolleyes:;)
Thanks, Bob.

[Indoor66]

QB/WR? With a 4.5 40, sounds like he's almost fast enough to throw passes to himself but at "only" 6'2" he is probably not quite tall enough! :rolleyes:;)
Thanks, Bob.

He may be tall enough - if you check the cinder block totals.

[watzone]

This one came out of the blue in a sense. The coaches have been on their summer break of sorts before getting down to business, so recruiting news has been a little slow. There are not many people who are familiar with the latest addition. His speed listed was an all time best but clocke a second or two faster on the norm from what I am told.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

This one came out of the blue in a sense. The coaches have been on their summer break of sorts before getting down to business, so recruiting news has been a little slow. There are not many people who are familiar with the latest addition. His speed listed was an all time best but clocke a second or two faster on the norm from what I am told.

Wait. A second or two or a tenth of a second or two? Makes quite a difference! ;)

[devildeac]

Wait. A second or two or a tenth of a second or two? Makes quite a difference! ;)

Yea, the difference between an elite FB recruit or having Ozzie or me as your RB or WR:rolleyes:.

[Bob Green]

Here is a nice recruiting review from Patrick at BDN:

http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/07/bdn-football-friday-class-of-2013-review/

Coach Cutcliffe and staff are in the process of securing a solid class.

[devilirium]

^ Bob, I hope so. James Franklin just guided Vanderbilt to a bowl in his first year. He secured the #26 ranked class this past year (by the way, that is the #9 recruiting class in the SEC...wow). No reason why Duke can't do that. Vanderbilt has had comparable success since the 60's and, of course, and has to deal with the SEC. Another 3 win season, and Kevin White is going to start looking at his "list". Players need to get it done for Cut this year.

[chrishoke]

^ Bob, I hope so. James Franklin just guided Vanderbilt to a bowl in his first year. He secured the #26 ranked class this past year (by the way, that is the #9 recruiting class in the SEC...wow). No reason why Duke can't do that. Vanderbilt has had comparable success since the 60's and, of course, and has to deal with the SEC. Another 3 win season, and Kevin White is going to start looking at his "list". Players need to get it done for Cut this year.

Well, Vandy is having an even better recruiting year this year - likely top 10 - with multiple four star recruits with offers from top programs.

[airowe]

Vanderbilt has had comparable success since the 60's and, of course, and has to deal with the SEC.

Is Vanderbilt playing in the SEC a drawback for recruiting? I'm sure Franklin is using this to his advantage actually. Many ACC coaches do this in basketball recruiting.

[DukeSean]

With the sanctions on PSU, I'm wondering if any recruits might decommit/transfer and head Duke's way. Not a whole lot of overlap, but a cursory look at PSU's commits who have/had Duke offers from the past few years:

2013:
TE Adam Breneman (6'5" 230, Rivals 4-star)
DE Garrett Sickels (6'4" 245, Rivals 4-star)
WR/LB Zach Bradshaw (6'3" 205, Rivals 3-star)

2012:
TE Brent Wilkerson (6'4" 245, Rivals 3-star)
RB Akeel Lynch (6'0" 205, Rivals 3-star)

2011:
ATH Bill Belton (5'9" 190, Rivals 4-star)
LB Ben Kline (6'2" 220, Rivals 3-star)
OT Ryan Nowicki (6'5" 270, Rivals 3-star)

2010:
QB Robert Bolden (6'4" 195, Rivals 4-star)
OG Luke Graham (6'5" 260, Rivals 3-star)
OT Thomas Ricketts (6'6" 265, Rivals 4-star)

[-bdbd]

The BDN comment about going O'fer on Linebackers and TE's made me think...
Did we have any near-misses recently with recruits choosing to go to PSU? Wondering if any of those might open up to recruitment again soon...
As I understand, their players, given the new scholarship limits and sanctions, can transfer and play elsewhere right away.
:rolleyes:

[DukeSean]

The BDN comment about going O'fer on Linebackers and TE's made me think...
Did we have any near-misses recently with recruits choosing to go to PSU? Wondering if any of those might open up to recruitment again soon...
As I understand, their players, given the new scholarship limits and sanctions, can transfer and play elsewhere right away.
:rolleyes:

Well, I hope we would go after some of the recruits, but as I understand it we are nearly out of scholarship space for 2013. That being said, I wouldn't be surprised if one or two more spots open up from the typical decommits from so-called soft verbals.

[-bdbd]

The BDN comment about going O'fer on Linebackers and TE's made me think...
Did we have any near-misses recently with recruits choosing to go to PSU? Wondering if any of those might open up to recruitment again soon...
As I understand, their players, given the new scholarship limits and sanctions, can transfer and play elsewhere right away.
:rolleyes:

Good timing Duke Sean, answering my question before I even posted it! Thanks. ;)

What is the protocol re. re-recruiting kids like that? I'm sure Cut plays those things pretty straight, even in the fairly slimy world of FB recruiting.

Looking at your list, more than one of those kids could certainly fill an area of need for us. Hard to know how close we actually were/are with any of them.

[airowe]

Well, I hope we would go after some of the recruits, but as I understand it we are nearly out of scholarship space for 2013. That being said, I wouldn't be surprised if one or two more spots open up from the typical decommits from so-called soft verbals.

We recently lost a scholarship player in Will Bryant but the NCAA is considering allowing schools to absorb the scholarships of Penn State players and not have them count against their scholarship limits.

http://www.ncaa.org/wps/wcm/connect/public/ncaa/20120723/21207234


Additionally, the NCAA is considering waiving scholarship limits for programs to which these football student-athletes transfer, provided they reduce proportionately in the next year. For example, the limit is 25 new scholarships per year to a total of 85 scholarships. If the limits are waived in 2012-13 to accommodate one Penn State student-athlete who wishes to transfer to a particular school already at the limits, in 2013-14 the school will be limited to 24 new scholarships and 84 total scholarships.

[OldPhiKap]

What is the protocol re. re-recruiting kids like that? I'm sure Cut plays those things pretty straight, even in the fairly slimy world of FB recruiting.

My general observation is that it is really bad form to poach recruits in basketball. Football, not so much. As long as you don't pull a Lane Kiffin and take them with you when you leave.

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

My general observation is that it is really bad form to poach recruits in basketball. Football, not so much. As long as you don't pull a Lane Kiffin and take them with you when you leave.
Let's not forget that Bill O'Brien, the current head coach at PSU, used to be at Duke as were many of his staff. People may be upset with the university and the administration, but the head coach is part of the Duke family.

[barely]

We recently lost a scholarship player in Will Bryant but the NCAA is considering allowing schools to absorb the scholarships of Penn State players and not have them count against their scholarship limits.

http://www.ncaa.org/wps/wcm/connect/public/ncaa/20120723/21207234

I noticed that Will Bryant was not on the new roster. What's the story?

[budwom]

I noticed that Will Bryant was not on the new roster. What's the story?

Gone. To Fordham I believe. Won't be missed from a football standpoint.

[pbc2]

Duke received a commitment from WR Terrence Alls today: http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/08/duke-receives-verbal-commitment-from-dade-christian-wr-terrence-alls/

[DukeSean]

Duke received a commitment from WR Terrence Alls today: http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/08/duke-receives-verbal-commitment-from-dade-christian-wr-terrence-alls/

Looks like we got a good one in Alls, lots of offers from other BCS schools. Welcome to Duke!

[jafarr1]

Joseph Ajeigbe to Duke! Three-star running back from the same high school as Corbin McCarthy in CA.

[roywhite]

Joseph Ajeigbe to Duke! Three-star running back from the same high school as Corbin McCarthy in CA.

Saw some Ajeigbe highlights videos (http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=8029223). He says that his favorite player is Maurice Jones-Drew, and his own style is similar.

Goes about 5'8" and 208 pounds; fast, low center of gravity, and seems to bounce off tacklers. Looks like another good offensive weapon for Team Cut.

[OldPhiKap]

Saw some Ajeigbe highlights videos (http://espn.go.com/video/clip?id=8029223). He says that his favorite player is Maurice Jones-Drew, and his own style is similar.

Goes about 5'8" and 208 pounds; fast, low center of gravity, and seems to bounce off tacklers. Looks like another good offensive weapon for Team Cut.

Welcome to the family!

[Jim3k]

From the Winston-Salem Journal (http://www2.journalnow.com/sports/2012/aug/18/wssport02-duke-lands-two-more-recruits-ar-2528642/).


Ajeigbe also had an offer from Arizona and was being recruited by Arizona State, California, Boise State, UCLA, Oregon State and Minnesota.


Alls also had offers from Wake Forest, West Virginia, Georgia Tech, Boston College, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Mississippi State, Tulane, Memphis, Vanderbilt, Cincinnati and Temple.

[Faison1]

From the Winston-Salem Journal (http://www2.journalnow.com/sports/2012/aug/18/wssport02-duke-lands-two-more-recruits-ar-2528642/).

I don't know a ton about football recruiting, from a macro level or even as it pertains to Duke, but shouldn't the staff really be focused on Defensive Line?

Looking back over the past couple of years, it doesn't seem as though we are stocking up on quality D-lineman. Can someone correct me if I'm wrong, or point out the difficulties in landing these types of guys?

[roywhite]

I don't know a ton about football recruiting, from a macro level or even as it pertains to Duke, but shouldn't the staff really be focused on Defensive Line?

Looking back over the past couple of years, it doesn't seem as though we are stocking up on quality D-lineman. Can someone correct me if I'm wrong, or point out the difficulties in landing these types of guys?

Good defensive linemen are at a premium in college football. And, yes, they are very important.

Good defensive line prospects who also have good academic credentials seem to be in even shorter supply.
I have no doubt that Cut would love to have some big, talented defensive linemen and has tried hard to do that.
It's been a problem for Duke football going back as long I've followed them, and that's 40+ years; it's a supply and demand issue and we haven't been able to get a good number of a rare commodity.

[OldPhiKap]

From the Winston-Salem Journal (http://www2.journalnow.com/sports/2012/aug/18/wssport02-duke-lands-two-more-recruits-ar-2528642/).

Sometimes you can judge a player by the recruiting competition. Great get for Cut. We all remember the days when our biggest competition for players was D-II schools -- and we still lost out.

Cut has built up the foundation, time to start building upwards!

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

I don't know a ton about football recruiting, from a macro level or even as it pertains to Duke, but shouldn't the staff really be focused on Defensive Line?

Looking back over the past couple of years, it doesn't seem as though we are stocking up on quality D-lineman. Can someone correct me if I'm wrong, or point out the difficulties in landing these types of guys?
I have no doubt that the staff is working hard to recruit road graders for the DL, but we're all waiting for that breakthrough recruit to commit. While we need/seek outstanding defensive linemen, our recruiting for other positions has to continue and improve as well. :cool:

[Faison1]

Good defensive linemen are at a premium in college football. And, yes, they are very important.

Good defensive line prospects who also have good academic credentials seem to be in even shorter supply.
I have no doubt that Cut would love to have some big, talented defensive linemen and has tried hard to do that.
It's been a problem for Duke football going back as long I've followed them, and that's 40+ years; it's a supply and demand issue and we haven't been able to get a good number of a rare commodity.


Thanks for the explanation. We seem to be doing fairly well at running back, wide receiver, q-backs, and O-linemen.

But from what you're saying, we should be prepared for a weak d-line over the next few years? bummer.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

I don't know a ton about football recruiting, from a macro level or even as it pertains to Duke, but shouldn't the staff really be focused on Defensive Line?

Looking back over the past couple of years, it doesn't seem as though we are stocking up on quality D-lineman. Can someone correct me if I'm wrong, or point out the difficulties in landing these types of guys?


Good defensive linemen are at a premium in college football. And, yes, they are very important.

Good defensive line prospects who also have good academic credentials seem to be in even shorter supply.
I have no doubt that Cut would love to have some big, talented defensive linemen and has tried hard to do that.
It's been a problem for Duke football going back as long I've followed them, and that's 40+ years; it's a supply and demand issue and we haven't been able to get a good number of a rare commodity.

This points out what a rare gem Vince Oghobasse was, a 5-star DT recruit with Academic All American credentials who chose Duke over anywhere, and everywhere, else in the country! :cool: But yes, we need to beat out Stanford and Notre Dame and Northwestern and ... for these men, who do exist almost every year.

[jimsumner]

This points out what a rare gem Vince Oghobasse was, a 5-star DT recruit with Academic All American credentials who chose Duke over anywhere, and everywhere, else in the country! :cool: But yes, we need to beat out Stanford and Notre Dame and Northwestern and ... for these men, who do exist almost every year.

John Drew was a pretty high-profile DT. Didn't pan out for off-field reasons. A significant might-have-been.

Most of the interior defensive linemen since then have been either recruiting reaches, e.g. Will Bryant, Steve Ingram-- or non-tackles that Duke is trying to grow into tackles, e.g. Nick Sink, Jamal Bruce, Jamal Wallace, Sam Marshall.

Carlos Wray appears to have a realistic chance to be pretty good down the line but it's tough to ask a true freshman to fend off starting ACC offensive lineman, almost all of whom are redshirt upperclassmen benefitting from years in sophisticated weight programs.

[Indoor66]

Carlos Wray appears to have a realistic chance to be pretty good down the line but it's tough to ask a true freshman to fend off starting ACC offensive lineman, almost all of whom are redshirt upperclassmen benefitting from years in sophisticated weight programs.

The last "Wray (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wray_Carlton)" we had was a pretty good football player. Maybe Carlos can do the job, as well.

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

The last "Wray (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wray_Carlton)" we had was a pretty good football player. Maybe Carlos can do the job, as well.
A great name from the past!:cool:

[CameronBornAndBred]

Evrett Edwards, a 5'11" CB prospect from VA, committed today. He also had offers from West Virginia, Boston College, Wake Forest, Illinois and Ohio U.

Cutcliffe is on a roll early...


Found a cool article on Edwards in the Chronicle today.

“[Alabama] had heard about me,” Edwards said. “But they had not seen me or paid any attention to me until I got down there. I shut down everybody that lined up against me for three days straight. And [Saban] told me that I am the best high school corner he has seen this year.”
http://www.dukechronicle.com/article/duke-football-recruit-evrett-edwards-gaining-natio

[chrishoke]

Found a cool article on Edwards in the Chronicle today.
http://www.dukechronicle.com/article/duke-football-recruit-evrett-edwards-gaining-natio

The best part of that article is that Edwards is considering early enrollment in January. That is great news given our lack of depth at the corner position for next year.

[pbc2]

Duke received a commitment from LB Dominic Zanca McDonald today, a former Tennessee commit.

http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/12/lake-brantley-lb-dominic-zanca-mcdonald-switches-to-duke/

Zanca will enroll in January along with Edwards, Mann, and Boehme.

[Bob Green]

Zanca will enroll in January along with Edwards, Mann, and Boehme.

That is great news as linebacker is a position of need. Thanks for the update. Is there any update on Parker Boehme's health? I know he injured a foot or toe and missed the end of his senior season.

[devildeac]

Duke received a commitment from LB Dominic Zanca McDonald today, a former Tennessee commit.

http://bluedevilnation.net/2012/12/lake-brantley-lb-dominic-zanca-mcdonald-switches-to-duke/

Zanca will enroll in January along with Edwards, Mann, and Boehme.

Excellent news! Thanks, Patrick. Good sized young man. Any idea about his 40 yard dash speed? What number/percentage of January entrants typically play that fall?

[-bdbd]

This kid looks pretty good - a strong presence in the middle. He had a lot of offers from apparently 12 schools from all of the major conferences. Anybody else like this trend -- stud recruits switching from a traditional SEC power school to Duke? And in a NEED position for us too. Here are some highlights:

m.youtube.com/watch?feature=plcp&v=SjVm5AopBe8


Apparently his dad has been a frequent poster on some Tenn fan sites. Here's an interesting one posted just recently:

Originally Posted by Lilflcajun
I would like to say we completely bought in to Tenn and there is no love lost there is zero members of the staff that we committed to including office people with that being said Dominic was not a priority to the new staff. It is why we had started setting trips up after the Vandy game incase this were to happen. But after this weekend we canceled the next trip as he found the new school he wanted to attend and can be EE other schools could not get that done in due time. We love reading both the haters and the fans that appreciated his play. I will watch this class closely as I came to be a fan of all the commits. Good luck Vol fans. And if anyone interested I have plenty of orange for sale LOL. For you guys that like to look at a kids offer list I have not seen a list of Dominic's that is remotely close. The kids report those to the sites a kid that is committed could care less about what the respected site says. His list is closer to 12 from all major conferences.

[Greg_Newton]

...For you guys that like to look at a kids offer list I have not seen a list of Dominic's that is remotely close. The kids report those to the sites a kid that is committed could care less about what the respected site says. His list is closer to 12 from all major conferences...

Nice, thanks for posting that. Certainly good to hear.

The first play of his hudl highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1101204/highlights/32129375) made me laugh out loud. Gotta love a hitter like that!

[Olympic Fan]

That is great news as linebacker is a position of need. Thanks for the update. Is there any update on Parker Boehme's health? I know he injured a foot or toe and missed the end of his senior season.

No insight on Boehme's health, but I think it's very unlikely that he'll be in the mix at QB next season anyway. He's going to be redshirted as Renfree, Boone and Sirk were. Heck. Cutcliffe redshirted Eli Manning at Ole Miss -- that's what he wants to do do.

The big one to get in early is Everett -- Duke has got to find anothe CB or two to compliment Ross Cockrell (losing Tim Burton really hurt). Somebody may be moved or a guy who hasn't played yet (Jared Boyd?) may get that position, but Everett is probably the best CB prospect that Duke has recruited in years.

It's a position of desperate need. I hate to see a true freshman having to play a big role, but it will be a bit easier to if Everrett has spring practice to get ready.

Zanca-McDonald is a great pickup. I think Duke is still recruiting a jucio LB nmed Joe Walker ... plus Kelby Brown will be back next season. That's a major upgrade at that position.

[Greg_Newton]

Zanca-McDonald is a great pickup. I think Duke is still recruiting a jucio LB nmed Joe Walker ... plus Kelby Brown will be back next season. That's a major upgrade at that position.

Unfortunately, Joe Walker committed to Oregon on his visit last weekend. Sucks because it sounded like we had a chance at a huge steal with him.

Although, I suppose when I find myself getting mad at losing a recruit to Oregon - who was also considering Miami and VT - it's a good sign about the direction of our recruiting...

The prospect I'm most salivating over right now is WR James Clark, who is reportedly planning to visit in the next month or two. It's been a lonnng time since we've had a guy with this extra gear, if ever:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pVxgxMuCTU

[Bob Green]

No insight on Boehme's health, but I think it's very unlikely that he'll be in the mix at QB next season anyway. He's going to be redshirted as Renfree, Boone and Sirk were. Heck. Cutcliffe redshirted Eli Manning at Ole Miss -- that's what he wants to do do.

I understand and agree with you that Boehme will not be in the mix as a true freshman. I'm just hoping he is healthy and able to participate in spring practice.

Prior to several home games this season, I tore myself away from tailgate festivities early and went into the stadium to observe pregame drills. Sirk looked really good throwing the ball so I'm excited he will be in the mix. What are your thoughts on Sirk and his prospects to challenge for the starting role in 2013?


The big one to get in early is Everett -- Duke has got to find anothe CB or two to compliment Ross Cockrell (losing Tim Burton really hurt). Somebody may be moved or a guy who hasn't played yet (Jared Boyd?) may get that position, but Everett is probably the best CB prospect that Duke has recruited in years.

It's a position of desperate need. I hate to see a true freshman having to play a big role, but it will be a bit easier to if Everrett has spring practice to get ready.



It will be tough on Evrett Edwards if he has to play cornerback in the ACC as a true freshman. Ross Cockrell struggled as a redshirt freshman, but as you state cornerback is a position of desperate need.

I am also interested in your thoughts on our prospects for returning kicks and punts with Butler and Vernon graduating. We need someone with good hands and superior speed. We seemed to struggle this season, especially on kick-off returns.

[jafarr1]

For CB, we're going to have somebody unproven back there. Unless Boyd plays in the bowl game, Cockrell is going to be the only CB on our roster who's played a snap in a game entering next season. Luckily we're getting Edwards and Mann (and maybe Borders) in early to get the extra reps.

We've got a few young guys who were terrific kick returners in high school. Devon Edwards comes to mind - his highlights started out with a bunch of long kickoff returns. Quay Mann is another possibility.

[jimsumner]

For CB, we're going to have somebody unproven back there. Unless Boyd plays in the bowl game, Cockrell is going to be the only CB on our roster who's played a snap in a game entering next season. Luckily we're getting Edwards and Mann (and maybe Borders) in early to get the extra reps.

We've got a few young guys who were terrific kick returners in high school. Devon Edwards comes to mind - his highlights started out with a bunch of long kickoff returns. Quay Mann is another possibility.

Actually, Garrett Patterson is scheduled to return.

Not likely the long-term answer. But he will be a CB with some game experience.

[TruBlu]

Unfortunately, Joe Walker committed to Oregon on his visit last weekend. Sucks because it sounded like we had a chance at a huge steal with him.

Although, I suppose when I find myself getting mad at losing a recruit to Oregon - who was also considering Miami and VT - it's a good sign about the direction of our recruiting...

The prospect I'm most salivating over right now is WR James Clark, who is reportedly planning to visit in the next month or two. It's been a lonnng time since we've had a guy with this extra gear, if ever:


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pVxgxMuCTU

Go after their QB also. He seems to have mastered the "sideways" passing game, although his "sideways" seems to have a little more "vertical" than ours. James Clark does have the extra gear you speak about, and even turns some sideways passes into long gains.

[Greg_Newton]

Welcome to Duke, Chris Holmes (http://news.fredericksburg.com/sports/2012/12/31/chargers-holmes-changes-mind-picks-duke/)!

After stealing Zanca-McDonald from Tennessee a few weeks ago, we snuck another from NCSU. A big get in a position of need - he had offers from Clemson, South Carolina and Michigan, among others. Good height and speed for a safety and looks like he hits hard (senior highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1018300/highlights/33767404)).

Great to see us beating out some traditional recruiting powerhouses for a few recruits.

[chrishoke]

Welcome to Duke, Chris Holmes (http://news.fredericksburg.com/sports/2012/12/31/chargers-holmes-changes-mind-picks-duke/)!

After stealing Zanca-McDonald from Tennessee a few weeks ago, we snuck another from NCSU. A big get in a position of need - he had offers from Clemson, South Carolina and Michigan, among others. Good height and speed for a safety and looks like he hits hard (senior highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1018300/highlights/33767404)).

Great to see us beating out some traditional recruiting powerhouses for a few recruits.

Great pickup at a position of need, safety - great sixe too.

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

Great pickup at a position of need, safety - great sixe too.
When we talk about depth at the safety position, let's not forget Jeremy Cash who had to sit out a year after transferring from tOSU where he was a starter.;)

[Bob Green]

Welcome to Duke, Chris Holmes (http://news.fredericksburg.com/sports/2012/12/31/chargers-holmes-changes-mind-picks-duke/)!

Thanks for sharing the great news! Hopefully we pick up a couple more defense recruits before February.

[jafarr1]

When we talk about depth at the safety position, let's not forget Jeremy Cash who had to sit out a year after transferring from tOSU where he was a starter.;)

Cash did not start at OSU. He played a bit on special teams as a true freshman, and was seen as a candidate to crack their safety two-deep as a sophomore.

[Olympic Fan]

Great pickup -- the second year in a row we've scored big late (and have a few more spots to fill).

As for next year's return picture, I agree that Devon Edwards is a first-rate prospect ... also, Jameson Crowder is a dynamic punt returner coming back.

I think we'll find good return guys. The problem with our kickoff returns last year was that we gad some very poor blocking up front. That's an area we need to upgrade.

Finally, about Sirk ... we won't know until we actually see him in action, but I think he's a guy worth getting VERY excited about. It's going to be hard to beat out Boone for the starting job and Connette will clearly have a role, but Sirk is good enough that he'll be in the mix. Especially if we go to more of a zone read offense (which involves the QB running a great deal), we're going to need multiple QBs.

[OldPhiKap]

Welcome to Duke, Chris Holmes (http://news.fredericksburg.com/sports/2012/12/31/chargers-holmes-changes-mind-picks-duke/)!

After stealing Zanca-McDonald from Tennessee a few weeks ago, we snuck another from NCSU. A big get in a position of need - he had offers from Clemson, South Carolina and Michigan, among others. Good height and speed for a safety and looks like he hits hard (senior highlights (http://www.hudl.com/athlete/1018300/highlights/33767404)).

Great to see us beating out some traditional recruiting powerhouses for a few recruits.

Welcome to the family Chris!

[pbc2]

Since the last update to this thread, Duke picked up a commitment from safety Phillip Carter from Folsom, California. Carter had committed to SJSU and Coach MacIntyre, but opened things up when Mac left for Colorado. Carter will be in town this weekend, along with a total of 8 recruits - 4 commits, and 4 uncommitted. http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/big-weekend-for-duke-football-as-signing-day-approaches/

Here's a little more on a few of them:

WR Ryan Smith: http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/bishop-gorman-wr-ryan-smith-is-ready-for-his-duke-official-visit/

OL Elijah George: http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/las-vegas-ol-elijah-george-taking-first-official-visit-to-duke/

S Deondre Singleton: http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/georgia-safety-deondre-singleton-looks-forward-to-duke-official-visit/

More to come...

[pbc2]

Duke landed a commitment from safety Deondre Singleton this morning: http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/safety-deondre-singleton-is-commitment-19-for-duke/

Kylen Towner is in town for his visit today: http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/speedy-athlete-kylen-towner-in-town-for-his-official-visit-to-duke/

[roywhite]

Duke landed a commitment from safety Deondre Singleton this morning: http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/safety-deondre-singleton-is-commitment-19-for-duke/

Kylen Towner is in town for his visit today: http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/speedy-athlete-kylen-towner-in-town-for-his-official-visit-to-duke/

Singleton seems like a key pick-up at a position of need. Maybe gets some playing time next year?

[loran16]

Singleton seems like a key pick-up at a position of need. Maybe gets some playing time next year?

Speaking of positions of need, we now have 3 3-star cornerbacks and two 3-star safeties according to scout. A potential much needed improvement to our horrible secondary.

[mkline09]

Speaking of positions of need, we now have 3 3-star cornerbacks and two 3-star safeties according to scout. A potential much needed improvement to our horrible secondary.

In all fairness the secondary was beat to hell this past year and playing a lot of younger guys, but yeah having some higher level talent will certainly help when you play a 4-2-5. Secondary is a big area of need for sure. I still wish they'd go to a traditional 4-3 but they'd have to recruit more linebackers for that.

[-bdbd]

Speaking of positions of need, we now have 3 3-star cornerbacks and two 3-star safeties according to scout. A potential much needed improvement to our horrible secondary.

I agree that they seem to be "closing out" well again, and specifically in areas of need. (But it sure would love to see more 3-4 star DL signees...)

I have been participating in a discussion of this over on TDD. Apparently we now have two scholarship slots remaining - Duke doesn't "over-recruit" like some programs - and one is certain to be held for a speedy cornerback/slot-receiver type. The two in play are Towner (on campus today) and Ryan Smith who was here over the weekend. Smith, following his Duke visit, decommitted from NM, where his dad coaches (but is supposedly leaving). So the signs are good that Smith may want to commit, but look for either him or Towner to commit soon. Both of these guys are VERY fast -- think 4.2 or 4.3 range in the 40.

Another kid who was here over the weekend who apparently had a very good visit, is west coaster OL Elijah George, from Vegas. He's a good one, and in fact reportedly just received an offer from Oregon in the last few days. Oregon is going to be his last visit, and so maybe it comes down to us or them. But at least one knowledgeable TDD poster seems to think the last scholarship is being held for George.

One kid who apparently didn't make it to campus this past weekend for his visit was OT Mike Railford, at 6'6" and 285. He was an early Navy commit but is still talking to us. The coaches apparently are trying to get him to visit Durham, along with Nigel Harris, before the early-Feb. signing date.

Nice to see us close out so strong. One argument for the OL candidates as an especially "needy" position, is that it would enable one of the current OL guys - maybe someone who played both ways in HS - to switch to defense possibly.
:D

[Bob Green]

So the signs are good that Smith may want to commit, but look for either him or Towner to commit soon. Both of these guys are VERY fast -- think 4.2 or 4.3 range in the 40.

Really? Smith's profile on Rivals and 247Sports list his 40 as 4.5. Perhaps that is an old time, but there is a huge difference between 4.2 and 4.5:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Ryan-Smith-106355

http://247sports.com/Player/Ryan-Smith-16084

[NSDukeFan]

Really? Smith's profile on Rivals and 247Sports list his 40 as 4.5. Perhaps that is an old time, but there is a huge difference between 4.2 and 4.5:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Ryan-Smith-106355

http://247sports.com/Player/Ryan-Smith-16084

I believe it is only .3 seconds. (;

[uh_no]

I believe it is only .3 seconds. (;

I know you're kdding, but to think about it:

At those speeds, .3 seconds equates to about 3-4 yards of separation....sometimes that's all you need

[jimsumner]

4.2 for a 40 is rare.

Really rare.

Really, really rare.

[AncientPsychicT]

4.2 for a 40 is rare.

Really rare.

Really, really rare.

In fact, according to this (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/40-yard_dash), a 4.2 flat has never happened (at least with reliable measurements; Bo Jackson allegedly ran a 4.12 back in 1986 when timing was done by hand). And sub-4.3 times have only happened 12 times, the fastest being Chris Johnson.

So count me in the skeptical group. However, if this kid has legit 4.3 speed, I will be very happy.

[Newton_14]

Speaking of positions of need, we now have 3 3-star cornerbacks and two 3-star safeties according to scout. A potential much needed improvement to our horrible secondary.

I would argue that our secondary was not the issue this year. The injuries hurt us for sure, so had we been healthy, the secondary would have been much stronger. That said, I think our bigger issue was with Linebackers and D-Line in that order. We badly need upgrades at linebacker, and we need help on the D-Line. Having a front 7 that can effectively stop the run, and apply real pressure to the QB in throwing situations is very important. No matter how good your D-Backs and Safeties are, they can't cover forever if the QB gets 5 and 6 seconds or more to just sit back and wait for a receiver to get open. It is even worse if they have to constantly be looking for running plays, and dump off passes, such that they have to immediately sprint back in to make tackles that the D-Line and Linebackers are failing to make.

Too often corners and safeties are scapegoats for the failures of the front 7. (or front 6 in out current defensive scheme of 4-2-5).

[roywhite]

I would argue that our secondary was not the issue this year. The injuries hurt us for sure, so had we been healthy, the secondary would have been much stronger. That said, I think our bigger issue was with Linebackers and D-Line in that order. We badly need upgrades at linebacker, and we need help on the D-Line. Having a front 7 that can effectively stop the run, and apply real pressure to the QB in throwing situations is very important. No matter how good your D-Backs and Safeties are, they can't cover forever if the QB gets 5 and 6 seconds or more to just sit back and wait for a receiver to get open. It is even worse if they have to constantly be looking for running plays, and dump off passes, such that they have to immediately sprint back in to make tackles that the D-Line and Linebackers are failing to make.

Too often corners and safeties are scapegoats for the failures of the front 7. (or front 6 in out current defensive scheme of 4-2-5).

Agree; seems to me that LB and DT are the biggest area of need.

http://duke.scout.com/a.z?s=167&p=9&c=8&yr=2013

Hard to tell from just a list of commits, but those areas don't seem to have been addressed in a major way with this class. One commit identified as a LB, and only one also at DT. Positions can change when the recruits actually come aboard, and some add weight and strength. Still, if we are looking at defense as a major need, it seems that most of the attention in this class has gone to defensive backs.

At LB, Kelby Brown could return after missing time and be a very good player. But a return to form is no sure thing after serious injury.

[loran16]

Agree; seems to me that LB and DT are the biggest area of need.

http://duke.scout.com/a.z?s=167&p=9&c=8&yr=2013

Hard to tell from just a list of commits, but those areas don't seem to have been addressed in a major way with this class. One commit identified as a LB, and only one also at DT. Positions can change when the recruits actually come aboard, and some add weight and strength. Still, if we are looking at defense as a major need, it seems that most of the attention in this class has gone to defensive backs.

At LB, Kelby Brown could return after missing time and be a very good player. But a return to form is no sure thing after serious injury.


I would argue that our secondary was not the issue this year. The injuries hurt us for sure, so had we been healthy, the secondary would have been much stronger. That said, I think our bigger issue was with Linebackers and D-Line in that order. We badly need upgrades at linebacker, and we need help on the D-Line. Having a front 7 that can effectively stop the run, and apply real pressure to the QB in throwing situations is very important. No matter how good your D-Backs and Safeties are, they can't cover forever if the QB gets 5 and 6 seconds or more to just sit back and wait for a receiver to get open. It is even worse if they have to constantly be looking for running plays, and dump off passes, such that they have to immediately sprint back in to make tackles that the D-Line and Linebackers are failing to make.

Too often corners and safeties are scapegoats for the failures of the front 7. (or front 6 in out current defensive scheme of 4-2-5).

Honestly, no one wants to say this but it has to be said, the entire Defensive unit has been lousy for a few years now. The CBs are often picked on, the safeties often are in the wrong position, the D Line doesn't put up any pressure, the team can't stop the run etc.

It will take more than recruiting to solve this problem honestly, but I'm not sure we can say for sure which part of the D was bad last year, because it was all bad (Like not even top 100 out of 120 D1A programs). Certain players racked up impressive sounding numbers...mainly because they got targetted so much.

[airowe]

Duke also had an inordinate amount of injuries to the defense last year, that played a big factor in the poor performance.

[-bdbd]

Really? Smith's profile on Rivals and 247Sports list his 40 as 4.5. Perhaps that is an old time, but there is a huge difference between 4.2 and 4.5:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/player-Ryan-Smith-106355

http://247sports.com/Player/Ryan-Smith-16084

Towner claims 4.3 speed, but interestingly Smith is the higher profile/rated recruit overall. I had seen comments that Smith was "just as fast." It'll be intereting to see which direction Duke goes. You just can't teach speed!! If one of our last pick-ups is an OL, such as George, then it'll be intereting to see if any (and who) among the current OL players might switch over to DL...

Kylen Towner has offers from Western Kentucky, UAB, and Samford. State 100 meter champ 10.78. Senior year had 7 interceptions, 2 for TDs. Reports 4.32 40, 39" vertical, 335 bench, and 500 lb squat on hudl.com. Watching his highlights from HUDL, he just looks incredibly fast.

Ryan Smith is a 3-star on rivals (5.5), ESPN (72), and 247 (76). Offers from New Mexico, Colorado St., Utah St,. Great production for national power program - 49-touchdowns along with 3207 yards receiving (state record). Under-sized but very fast on tape.

[pbc2]

Ryan Smith commits to Duke today: http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/bishop-gorman-wr-ryan-smith-commits-to-duke/

Speedy receiver from a strong HS program. Duke likes him as a slot receiver and possibly some return duties.

[Bob Green]

Physically, Smith sounds a lot like Donovan Varner so hopefully he will be as successful at Duke as Varner was. We need someone, either one of the 2012 freshmen who played sparingly or redshirted, or a 2013 true freshman to step up and produce in the slot. Desmond Scott caught 66 passes for 666 yards in 2012 as our slot reeiver. In 2011, Donovan Varner caught 61 passes for 713 yards. That is a lot of production to replace. I'm extremely happy we now have five WR verbal commits.

[Kewlswim]

Hi,

Football is a game won or lost at the line of scrimmage, always has been and in my opinion always will be. It is my impression that Duke has linemen it has purposely held out as red-shirts who will contribute a lot to the team next year. I know this is the 2013 recruiting thread so let me make the connection: If guys are coming in to fill slots in the secondary and the line is improved next year, I think we will see a markedly improved secondary, even with first year guys. So, if the players discussed come to Duke next year and contribute as they are capable (not a rash of injuries) I am cautiously optimistic.

GO DUKE!!

[Bob Green]

Per this list at GoDuke.com:

http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_LANG=C&ATCLID=206195669&DB_OEM_ID=4200

17 of 20 recruits are in the truck. We are waiting on the three West Coast guys.

[loran16]

Per this list at GoDuke.com:

http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_LANG=C&ATCLID=206195669&DB_OEM_ID=4200

17 of 20 recruits are in the truck. We are waiting on the three West Coast guys.

Any chance of pleasant surprises this year?

[Bob Green]

Any chance of pleasant surprises this year?

I don't think so. We will sign our 20.

[Dev11]

All done.

Nothing too exciting today for Duke, but pretty much every college football writer on Twitter takes today to test out about a million new jokes. It's fairly entertaining.

[WakeDevil]

Ryan Smith commits to Duke today: http://bluedevilnation.net/2013/01/bishop-gorman-wr-ryan-smith-commits-to-duke/

Speedy receiver from a strong HS program. Duke likes him as a slot receiver and possibly some return duties.

Suggestion to writers: Use something less hackneyed than "caught up with" or "sat down with."

[devildeac]

Rankings from rivals.com from earlier today:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/teamrank/2013/all/all

[CDu]

Rankings from rivals.com from earlier today:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/teamrank/2013/all/all

Wow. SEC schools get 6 of the top-10 spots and 10 of the top-20. The rich apparently are getting richer.

[loran16]

Rankings from rivals.com from earlier today:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/recruiting/teamrank/2013/all/all

whelp, tenth in the ACC is depressing, although BC fans should be far more depressed. Us and BC are basically tied for least amount of under 3-star players.

Not saying those guys can't be very good players, but I'd like to think we're becoming a more attractive school.

[El_Diablo]

whelp, tenth in the ACC is depressing, although BC fans should be far more depressed. Us and BC are basically tied for least amount of under 3-star players.

Not saying those guys can't be very good players, but I'd like to think we're becoming a more attractive school.

I think it's mainly an issue of the ACC having a stronger recruiting year overall this year, compared to recent years. Assuming Rivals' points allocation criteria have remained steady over time, Duke's "1095" total this year would have been good for #6 in the ACC last year, #5 in 2011, and #6 in 2010. In that respect, Duke has improved markedly over its "621" in 2012, "238" in 2011, and "314" in 2010. Again, this assumes that Rivals has not drastically changed its scoring criteria, but since the leader of the ACC has been in the 2000-2500 range in almost every year (including this year), one would think the scoring system has probably been pretty consistent, and thus it's a stronger year overall for the ACC (and for Duke).

[airowe]

10th out of 14 is better than 10th out of 12.

Lots of good talent in this group at places we sorely needed it (WR and secondary).

[roywhite]

Wow. SEC schools get 6 of the top-10 spots and 10 of the top-20. The rich apparently are getting richer.

True, but remember the ranked class is not necessarily the one that shows up at school. Some SEC schools can lose a few or even up to 6 or 7 commits to academic or other problems.

[loran16]

I think it's mainly an issue of the ACC having a stronger recruiting year overall this year, compared to recent years. Assuming Rivals' points allocation criteria have remained steady over time, Duke's "1095" total this year would have been good for #6 in the ACC last year, #5 in 2011, and #6 in 2010. In that respect, Duke has improved markedly over its "621" in 2012, "238" in 2011, and "314" in 2010. Again, this assumes that Rivals has not drastically changed its scoring criteria, but since the leader of the ACC has been in the 2000-2500 range in almost every year (including this year), one would think the scoring system has probably been pretty consistent, and thus it's a stronger year overall for the ACC (and for Duke).

Have they? Look at the overall team rankings - Duke has remained steadily in the same 65-75-ish range for years. I'm not asking for top 25, I'm hoping for say around #50 or so.

[El_Diablo]

Have they? Look at the overall team rankings - Duke has remained steadily in the same 65-75-ish range for years. I'm not asking for top 25, I'm hoping for say around #50 or so.

Yeah, maybe Rivals has changed its scoring system a little this year, or maybe it's just a stronger than usual class nationwide. But either way, the separation between Duke and the ACC leader this year (~1000 vs. 2300) is much better than in the recent past (~300 vs. 2300).