2018 Football Recruiting

[Bob Green]

QB Gunnar Holmberg becomes the first verbal commit for the 2018 recruiting class. He is a 3* from Wake Forest, NC.


David Cutcliffe ‏@DavidCutcliffe · 37s37 seconds ago

Sound the NC Alarm!!!! Ring the Big Bell!!! BANG BANG DUKEGANG!!! 18.








[devildeac]

QB Gunnar Holmberg becomes the first verbal commit for the 2018 recruiting class. He is a 3* from Wake Forest, NC.










Oooh, good news. Depending on what high school he attends (could be Wake Forest, Rolesville or Heritage), I'll have to start cheering for him to put up 30/50 and 400 yard passing games with a TD:INT of about 5:1 but lose despite a fabulous game when our high school, Millbrook, runs back a KO 98 yds as time expires for a 56-55 victory. ;)

[Bob Green]

Depending on what high school he attends...

It is Heritage.

http://www.scout.com/player/207446-gunnar-holmberg?s=167

[devildeac]

It is Heritage.

http://www.scout.com/player/207446-gunnar-holmberg?s=167

Good to know. Thanks, Bob. They play in the Cap 8 conference which is comprised of teams from the central and north Raleigh area, including our favorite, the Millbrook Wildcats. All are 4A or 4AA (NC has no 5A or 6A designation for HS sports) teams so he'll be playing against good competition most of the time.

[OldPhiKap]

Welcome Gunnar!

[IsInTheDetails]

QB Gunnar Holmberg becomes the first verbal commit for the 2018 recruiting class. He is a 3* from Wake Forest, NC.



Welcome, Gunnar. Such a great name for a QB. He's listed as a dual-threat QB, so I can only assume is middle name is Runnar.

I wonder what this means - if anything - for our QB recruiting in the 2017 class. We'll lose Sirk to graduation this (academic) year, Boehme to graduation next year. We have Daniel Jones and Quentin Harris, who will be redshirt juniors when Gunnar shows up, but QB depth gets thin post-Boehme (unless Nico Pierre moves back from RB).

[jldukie]

Ya gotta love any QB named Gunnar. Welcome to Duke young man! Does this mean we are not likely to get a QB in the 2017 class?

[Olympic Fan]

Ya gotta love any QB named Gunnar. Welcome to Duke young man! Does this mean we are not likely to get a QB in the 2017 class?

If I had to guess, I'd say we'll almost certainly have a QB in this class.

As it now stands, we go into 2017 with just three QBs on the roster -- redshirt senior Parker Boehme and redshirt sophs Quentin Harris and Daniel Jones. That's not enough.

I know Duke is still in the mix for Jack Sears, a four-star QB from San Clemente, Calif., who has promised to decide sometime this month. But while he's visited Duke a couple of times and has included them in his finalists, most think he'll end up at UCLA or Southern Cal.

If we miss on Sears (as we probably will), then I expect Cut to bring in a sleeper candidate at quarterback -- somebody to provide insurance at the position.

[Chillduck]

Good to know. Thanks, Bob. They play in the Cap 8 conference which is comprised of teams from the central and north Raleigh area, including our favorite, the Millbrook Wildcats. All are 4A or 4AA (NC has no 5A or 6A designation for HS sports) teams so he'll be playing against good competition most of the time.

This is the last year of the Cap 8. His senior year will be spent in a new conference comprised of Heritage, Wake Forest, Wakefield, Rolesville, Knightdale, and Corinth Holders. The beauty of conference realignment.

[devildeac]

This is the last year of the Cap 8. His senior year will be spent in a new conference comprised of Heritage, Wake Forest, Wakefield, Rolesville, Knightdale, and Corinth Holders. The beauty of conference realignment.

Yea, I had forgotten conference realignment was happening next year as our last child graduated from HS in 2007. I can remember when Millbrook had to travel to Apex, Green Hope and even Lee County regularly for their athletic events:eek:. This really kinda/sorta makes sense to reduce travel expenses, time and foster some new rivalries. Most of the old Cap 6 or Cap 8 rivalries remain intact though I liked traveling to Wake Forest HS and then Wakefield for FB, BB and soccer.

[Bob Green]

The Devils Den has an interview with Holmberg posted:

http://www.scout.com/college/duke/story/1686950-duke-s-new-signal-caller-breaks-down-decision


It’s just the respect they have for everything. When you get there, they talk with you about your family life, your life as a whole and they get to know you as a person before they will even ask you anything about football which meant a lot to me. They just seemed like a friend to me, and they get to know every part of you which meant a lot to me.

In the video clip at the top of the interview, Holmberg displays solid mobility and speed.

[Bob Green]

Wide receiver Austin Osborne (6'3" 185) received a scholarship offer today:


Austin Osborne
‏@osborneaustin18
GRATEFUL to have received an offer from Duke University!!🔵🔵 #BlueDevils #DukeGang

Osborne is from Mission Viejo, CA.

[devildeac]

Wide receiver Austin Osborne (6'3" 185) received a scholarship offer today:



Osborne is from Mission Viejo, CA.

Hmm, might that sway Sears away from the west coast?

(thinking not really but it's worth a thought)

[IsInTheDetails]

I have no idea what the "Football University Top Gun Showcase" is, but it's nice to see two Duke connections in this writeup (http://duke.247sports.com/Article/FBU-Top-Gun-Final-Day-Top-performers-46300625) of top performers.

2018 running back, Joshua Booker, stood out as a top performer and considers Duke "the dream school," according to the author.

Also mentioned is 2017 tight end commitment, Noah Gray, who plays QB for his high school team but stood out catching the ball while competing with wide receivers at the camp.

[Bob Green]

Taiyon Palmer has verbally committed to Duke!

http://www.scout.com/player/197369-taiyon-palmer?s=167

[Bob Green]

Today is Junior Day at Duke:

http://www.scout.com/college/football/recruiting/story/1755562-star-studded-duke-junior-day-on-saturday?s=167

Commits Gunnar Holmberg (QB) and Taiyon Palmer (CB) will be in attendance.

The "others attending" part of the article is premium so I can't see it. Perhaps some of our more connected posters can shed some light. :cool:

[budwom]

Today is Junior Day at Duke:

http://www.scout.com/college/football/recruiting/story/1755562-star-studded-duke-junior-day-on-saturday?s=167

Commits Gunnar Holmberg (QB) and Taiyon Palmer (CB) will be in attendance.

The "others attending" part of the article is premium so I can't see it. Perhaps some of our more connected posters can shed some light. :cool:

There's a yooge list of highly ranked kids coming in, but I have no idea what we'll reap from all this...

[Bob Green]

3* wide receiver Jake Bobo from Belmont, MA has verbally committed to Duke according to Twitter. :cool:

[chrishoke]

3* wide receiver Jake Bobo from Belmont, MA has verbally committed to Duke according to Twitter. :cool:

He's 6 ft 4 in but only weighs 175. Three star but underwhelming offer list. Smart kid.

[chrishoke]

WF and BC are his only other P5 offers.

[OldPhiKap]

Welcome Jake!

[OldPhiKap]

WF and BC are his only other P5 offers.

Airowe's tweet, FWIW:

"Big addition to #DukeGang18's wide receivers corps. Bobo was the best WR I saw at @DukeFOOTBALL's SNL camp last year. Very underrated."

[chrishoke]

Airowe's tweet, FWIW:

"Big addition to #DukeGang18's wide receivers corps. Bobo was the best WR I saw at @DukeFOOTBALL's SNL camp last year. Very underrated."

Saturday Night Live Camp? :D

Good to hear.

[AtlBluRew]

Saturday Night Live Camp? :D

Good to hear.

It did wonders for Melissa McCarthy.

[PDDuke85]

http://duke.247sports.com/Bolt/Duke-lands-commitment-from-Three-Star-2018-OT-Casey-Holman-51637191

another big boy says yes

welcome Casey

[Bob Green]

Casey Holman has lots of P5 offers: Auburn, Florida, Iowa State, Louisville, Maryland, Miami, Miss State, NC State, UNC, Rutgers, South Carolina, Vanderbilt, Virginia Tech and Wake Forest.

He is from Snellville, GA.

[du_bb1]

Ga has become fertile territory

[Indoor66]

Ga has become fertile territory

Ga has been fertile territory for many years. If you mean for Duke, you may be correct.

[chrishoke]

Duke football recruit Rak Chambers has won a second national award. Very impressive young man.
http://www.oanow.com/news/opelika/opelika-s-rakavius-chambers-selected-for-another-national-honor/article_bc4462f6-082d-11e7-8b43-ebbb13aa22a5.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=user-share

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Duke football recruit Rak Chambers has won a second national award. Very impressive young man.
http://www.oanow.com/news/opelika/opelika-s-rakavius-chambers-selected-for-another-national-honor/article_bc4462f6-082d-11e7-8b43-ebbb13aa22a5.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=user-share
Wow! Most impressive young man! Welcome to Duke indeed!

[Mike Corey]

Tahj Rice, a 4-star DE from Kentucky, chose Duke this morning over Southern Cal, Louisville, Oregon, and Virginia Tech.

[OldPhiKap]

Tahj Rice, a 4-star DE from Kentucky, chose Duke this morning over Southern Cal, Louisville, Oregon, and Virginia Tech.

Woo hoo!! That's a big get.

Welcome, Tahj!

[chrishoke]

WOW! Welcome Tajh. He is a top 200 recruit! Speedy. powerful defensive end. Sweet!

http://duke.247sports.com/Article/Analysis-Tahj-Rice-commits-to-Duke-Blue-Devils-51766009

[jimsumner]

Duke football recruit Rak Chambers has won a second national award. Very impressive young man.
http://www.oanow.com/news/opelika/opelika-s-rakavius-chambers-selected-for-another-national-honor/article_bc4462f6-082d-11e7-8b43-ebbb13aa22a5.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=user-share

It should be noted that Chambers signed last month and is a member of the class of 2017.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

WOW! Welcome Tajh. He is a top 200 recruit! Speedy. powerful defensive end. Sweet!

http://duke.247sports.com/Article/Analysis-Tahj-Rice-commits-to-Duke-Blue-Devils-51766009
Here's a pretty cool commitment video by Tahj!
http://www.sbnation.com/college-football-recruiting/2017/3/14/14921850/tahj-rice-duke-louisville-commitment-super-hero-stunt-video

[Avvocato]

Amazing get. The fact that we are now bringing in top 200 Defensive end recruits who are 6'3", 300 lbs, who can also play along the interior is mind blowing. Great get by the staff at an area of need. Now let's hold on to him. Ben Alpert is worth every penny he gets.

[RepoMan]

Agreed. An awesome signing. It feels like we have had more recruiting success at the skill positions over the years, but if we can start bringing in more linemen with speed and size . . . !!!

[chrishoke]

Duke yesterday received a commitment from the number 1 tight end prospect in NC and a top 25 recruit in the state. DukeGang!

[devildeac]

Duke yesterday received a commitment from the number 1 tight end prospect in NC and a top 25 recruit in the state. DukeGang!

A bit more info here:

http://duke.247sports.com/Bolt/COMMITMENT-1-TE-in-NC-pledges-to-Duke-52215952


"Three-Star 2018 Tight End Zamari Ellis, the #1-rated player at his position in the state of NC, committed to Duke today over confirmed offers from Tennessee, North Carolina, West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, Wake Forest, Vanderbilt and East Carolina."


More:


"The 6'4",245 pound Ellis from Southern Vance High School in Henderson, NC, told TheDevilsDen.com that "Duke just feels like home" after his commitment. He was recruited by Re'quan Boyette, the Blue Devils' Running Backs coach who is also an in-state alumnus of the football program and university. Boyette made a big impact on Ellis during the recruitment."

Sounds like a real beast.

[Olympic Fan]

A bit more info here:

http://duke.247sports.com/Bolt/COMMITMENT-1-TE-in-NC-pledges-to-Duke-52215952


"Three-Star 2018 Tight End Zamari Ellis, the #1-rated player at his position in the state of NC, committed to Duke today over confirmed offers from Tennessee, North Carolina, West Virginia, Maryland, Virginia, Wake Forest, Vanderbilt and East Carolina."


More:


"The 6'4",245 pound Ellis from Southern Vance High School in Henderson, NC, told TheDevilsDen.com that "Duke just feels like home" after his commitment. He was recruited by Re'quan Boyette, the Blue Devils' Running Backs coach who is also an in-state alumnus of the football program and university. Boyette made a big impact on Ellis during the recruitment."

Sounds like a real beast.

It's funny ... we've had a lot of success landing tight ends in recent years. This is great news.

BTW: Did anybody see that Clemson landed a commitment from the No. 1 QB (and No. 3 overall prospect) in the class -- Xavier Thomas. They have three top 10 commitments already and are in the running for several more. top 10-15 guys.

[Bob Green]

BTW: Did anybody see that Clemson landed a commitment from the No. 1 QB (and No. 3 overall prospect) in the class -- Xavier Thomas.

Slight correction - Xavier Thomas is a defensive end:

http://www.espn.com/college-sports/recruiting/football/story/_/id/19110094/top-ranked-junior-xavier-thomas-commits-clemson-tigers

[Olympic Fan]

Slight correction - Xavier Thomas is a defensive end:

http://www.espn.com/college-sports/recruiting/football/story/_/id/19110094/top-ranked-junior-xavier-thomas-commits-clemson-tigers

Duh! I was really off -- Thomas is not only a DE ... he is the No. 1 overall prospect in the country (not No. 3). Don't know what I was thinking.

[chrishoke]

BangBang DukeGang! Three star Florida linebacker with 25 offers inncluding Oregon and Louisville commits to the Blue Devils!

[brevity]

BangBang DukeGang! Three star Florida linebacker with 25 offers inncluding Oregon and Louisville commits to the Blue Devils!

You should write teasers for local news stations. More at 11.

Here's a link (http://duke.247sports.com/Article/Three-Star-Florida-Linebacker-Rocky-Shelton-Commits-To-Duke-52469069). His name is Rocky Shelton.


Shelton, depending on the recruiting service, is listed as both an inside and outside linebacker. However, Duke seems to believe he’ll play on the inside which is where Shelton prefers.

“I am an inside backer. Me speed and nose for the ball are my strengths. I cover pretty good too. Breaking down film is an area that I can improve on.”

[devildeac]

Duh! I was really off -- Thomas is not only a DE ... he is the No. 1 overall prospect in the country (not No. 3). Don't know what I was thinking.

Just as long as you don't tell us you got your info from Slater/Rowe/247 Sports. ;):rolleyes:

[OldPhiKap]

Another nice class coming together. Cut's building well. Looking forward to a good and challenging season ahead!

[jimsumner]

You have to love a football player named Rocky.

There was some fear that last season's 4-8 mark might erode recruiting. But Duke is off to a very good start and has a realistic chance at some other 4-star types.

[Indoor66]

You have to love a football player named Rocky.

There was some fear that last season's 4-8 mark might erode recruiting. But Duke is off to a very good start and has a realistic chance at some other 4-star types.

Maybe the recruiting results this year after a 4-8 year speak to Cut's efforts to build a program rather than just recruiting classes. I hope so.

[Bob Green]

BangBang DukeGang! Three star Florida linebacker with 25 offers inncluding Oregon and Louisville commits to the Blue Devils!

Great news! Continued success recruiting linebackers is encouraging.

[budwom]

BangBang DukeGang! Three star Florida linebacker with 25 offers inncluding Oregon and Louisville commits to the Blue Devils!

Not to mention offers from Florida State, LSU, Penn State, and gobs of others. Based on his offers, I'd say he's under rated as a three star...

[chrishoke]

Not to mention offers from Florida State, LSU, Penn State, and gobs of others. Based on his offers, I'd say he's under rated as a three star...

Agreed. Rivals in fact has him ranked as a four star. I love all the talent we are bringing in on thew defensive side of the ball.

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

A good trend, an important aspect of building... we need to be ready for the opening game in 2019 and all the games in between.

[Bob Green]

Per the Twitterverse, two Duke targets will announce their college decision today:

1. Blaine Scott (http://www.scout.com/player/199528-blaine-scott?s=167) an offensive lineman

2. Ernest Jones IV (http://www.scout.com/player/215290-ernest-jones-iv?s=167) a defensive end/linebacker

[Bob Green]

Blaine Scott committed to Ole Miss.

[Devil549]

Great to read this thread and updates on football.

Coach Cut has really built a program by recruiting great kids, running a discipline program, hiring outstanding coaches and improving facilities (must give donors most of the credit).

Basically he has the program where we are playing to go bowling every year and with a few breaks playing in the ACC Championship game!!!

[Olympic Fan]

And just to update, it looks lime Earnest Jones committed to South Carolina.

[Merlindevildog91]

Just saw this on Twitter. Jeremiah Lewis is a 6'0" cornerback from Plano, TX. 7396

[Avvocato]

Just saw this on Twitter. Jeremiah Lewis is a 6'0" cornerback from Plano, TX. 7396

Great news. Welcome Jeremiah. Of course, always interesting when a recruit commits "at this point".

[Olympic Fan]

ESPN lists Lewis as 6-0, 180 ... on 247, he's 5-11, 180.

Not a big difference. He's a solid three star prospect with 15 D-1 offers. I count five from other P5 schools (Northwestern, Purdue, Boston College, Kansas and Colorado), plus offers from such schools as Southern Miss, Tulsa, SMU, Colorado State and Rice.

He was a back burner recruit at several other schools, such as Notre Dame and Baylor, but they had not offered.

He's Duke's eighth commit -- one consensus four star (DE/DT Tahj Rice), one borderline four star (LB Rocky Shelton) and now six solid three stars (a QB, a TE, a WR, an OL, and two CBs).

We most need another couple of OLs, anther DL or two, another WR, a RB and a safety or two.

[Bob Green]

He's Duke's eighth commit -- one consensus four star (DE/DT Tahj Rice), one borderline four star (LB Rocky Shelton) and now six solid three stars (a QB, a TE, a WR, an OL, and two CBs).



ESPN rates three of our recruits at four star: CB Taiyon Palmer, DT Tahj Rice and QB Gunnar Holmberg.

http://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/school/_/id/150/class/2018

This class is starting to take shape.

[Bob Green]

Early signing period has been approved. The first early signing period will be December 20 - 22, 2017:

http://www.espn.com/college-football/story/_/id/19339267/collegiate-commissioners-association-approves-early-signing-period-football


College football previously had one signing period beginning on the first Wednesday of February. That signing period will remain, though most prospects are now expected to sign in December.

[Merlindevildog91]

7413

Shaka Heyward, OLB from Georgia.

[Olympic Fan]

7413

Shaka Heyward, OLB from Georgia.

6-3, 215 three star, according to 247

Offers from Maryland, Minnesota, Iowa State, Ole Miss, Rutgers and Wake Forest from the P5

Also offers from Southern Miss, Temple, Arkansas State and Georgia State

Welcome to Duke ... and "Shaka-Zulu!"

[OldPhiKap]

Welcome, sir!

[chrishoke]

Welcome to the Duke football family young man. I love getting recruits from the peach state.

[Bob Green]

Ten recruits in the 2018 Class so far. Five on offense and five on defense:

QB Gunnar Holmberg
OT Casey Holman
TE Zamara Ellis
WR Jake Bobo
WR Dennis Smith

DT/DE Tahj Rice
CB Taiyon Palmer
OLB Darrell Shelton
CB Jeremiah Lewis
S/LB Shaka Heyward

Definitely need another couple offensive and defensive linemen. Running back is the other position of need that jumps out.

[Listen to Quants]

Ten recruits in the 2018 Class so far. Five on offense and five on defense:

QB Gunnar Holmberg
OT Casey Holman
TE Zamara Ellis
WR Jake Bobo
WR Dennis Smith

DT/DE Tahj Rice
CB Taiyon Palmer
OLB Darrell Shelton
CB Jeremiah Lewis
S/LB Shaka Heyward

Definitely need another couple offensive and defensive linemen. Running back is the other position of need that jumps out.

There are often, as kids step up in level, conversions of TE to OL. Some high level athletic OLs came through that process. Do any of the many Duke TEs seem plausible for that?

[Bob Green]

There are often, as kids step up in level, conversions of TE to OL. Some high level athletic OLs came through that process. Do any of the many Duke TEs seem plausible for that?

I'm not aware of any at this time. Duke has converted a couple of TE to defensive lineman during the Coach Cutcliffe years but I am unaware of any conversions to offensive lineman.

Duke is not particularly overstaffed at TE right now:

RJr - Daniel Helm
RJr - Davis Koppenhaver
RFr - Mark Birmingham
Fr - Jake Marwede
Fr - Noah Gray

I fully expect both freshmen to redshirt.

[Bob Green]

WR Jarett Garner (6'3" 186), from Harrisburg, NC, has verbally committed to Duke:

http://www.hudl.com/profile/4890730/jarett-garner


Jarett Garner‏ @Jay_Garner11 6h6 hours ago
More
Truly honored and blessed to commit to Duke University today! #DukeGang

[OldPhiKap]

WR Jarett Garner (6'3" 186), from Harrisburg, NC, has verbally committed to Duke:

http://www.hudl.com/profile/4890730/jarett-garner

Welcome, Jarett!

[Bob Green]

Here is a very nice article on new wide receiver Jarett Garner:

http://www.independenttribune.com/sports/ragin-bulls-garner-commits-to-dream-school/article_e4b95a1c-4c88-11e7-9233-7f62fa53759b.html


Garner’s statistics proved that his hard work paid off, as he had 60 receptions for 1,292 yards and 14 touchdowns, both team-highs last season. But according to Seidel, Garner’s stats and game footage don’t even show how much he’s improved since beginning the sport less than a year ago.

It sounds like the young man has a huge upside. It will be enjoyable to track his stats this coming season at Hickory Ridge High School.


Garner’s physical attributes help, too, with a 38-inch vertical jump and a 10-foot broad jump...

[OldPhiKap]

"Garner’s physical attributes help, too, with a 38-inch vertical jump and a 10-foot broad jump..."

Nice.

We've got speed, we've got athleticism, we've got a QB that can throw it down the field. And we've got a coach who knows how to use those weapons.

Future keeps looking brighter!

[Bob Green]

OL Maurice McIntyre has verbally committed to Duke:


Maurice McIntyre‏
@MauriceMc_70

Truly honored and blessed to commit to Duke University today! #DukeGang18

[jimsumner]

OL Maurice McIntyre has verbally committed to Duke:

6-3, 285, Jacksonville, NC, 3-star, projects as a guard.

[budwom]

6-3, 285, Jacksonville, NC, 3-star, projects as a guard.

OR...6-1, 331 according to 247. Quite the spread. He's also played defense (DT) in some of the camps, so who the heck knows? I'm thinking more likely DT...

[budwom]

^evidently 331 lbs is the accurate update, and DT is at this point more likely...

[CameronBornAndBred]

Second NC pickup for Cut this year? That is a good trend, it seems he went cold in the state last year.

[Bob Green]

^evidently 331 lbs is the accurate update, and DT is at this point more likely...

Jim Bridge says he is big and powerful:


Jim Bridge‏ @CoachJimBridge 31m31 minutes ago

Big, powerful and athletic news in Durham. We keep rolling along. #DukeGang18

[devildeac]

Second NC pickup for Cut this year? That is a good trend, it seems he went cold in the state last year.

Perhaps those NC HS (rising) seniors are finally starting to realize the truth about the dirty, rotten, cheating bastards in Orange County, despite the prevarications and obfuscations of the Hat and the Huck. ;)

[Olympic Fan]

Second NC pickup for Cut this year? That is a good trend, it seems he went cold in the state last year.

Actually, I make this the fourth North Carolina kid in this class -- Holmberg (Wake Forest), Ellis (Henderson), Garner (Harrisburg) and now McIntyre (Jacksonville)

And I hear that McIntyre was recruited as am OL.

[jimsumner]

OR...6-1, 331 according to 247. Quite the spread. He's also played defense (DT) in some of the camps, so who the heck knows? I'm thinking more likely DT...

That's some weight gain.

[johnb]

OL Maurice McIntyre has verbally committed to Duke:

In this video, he looks more like 5'9", 160, but he's got a big sound.

https://www.theguardian.com/music/video/2010/sep/13/kalaparusha-maurice-mcintyre-horn-starvation-box

[Devil549]

Great pickup and looks like after low numbers of North Carolina recruits the past few years Coach Cut and Staff are working the state hard.

GO DUKE!!!!!!

[jimsumner]

Great pickup and looks like after low numbers of North Carolina recruits the past few years Coach Cut and Staff are working the state hard.

GO DUKE!!!!!!

Cut has told the media several times that he recruits NC hard every year but some years there just aren't that many ACC-level recruits in the state with the academics necessary to matriculate at Duke.

FWIW.

[Bob Green]

Just to keep things consistent and threads aligned...

Welcome to Duke, Nate Thompson! Cornerback from Sanford, NC.

[-bdbd]

Welcome to Duke Nate!! Really good get. And a solid offer sheet: NCSU, SC, VPI, Wake, Syracuse, Purdue, etc.

At 6'3" and 185 he has good size, but needs to add some muscle. He's really good in coverage.

Rivals rates him as a 4-star recruit. 247 rates him as a high 3-star prospect. Scout has him as a 3-star Safety, the best S in NC and the 56th best safety nationally.

As stated, always great to get great talent near-by home, especially when we get to beat out other ACC schools for him... ;)

[chrishoke]

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Duke lands three-star RB @mataeo_durant from McCormick, S.C. First RB in Duke's 2018 class
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[Bob Green]

Thanks for the great news, chrishoke! It is nice to see the first running back commit.

[Bob Green]

Steve Wiseman on Durant:

http://www.heraldsun.com/sports/college/acc/duke/article160297814.html


Durant, who is 6-feet tall and weighs 180 pounds, has been clocked at 4.65 seconds on the 40-yard dash. His combination of speed and power drew plenty of offers from ACC and SEC schools.

Scout lists his 40 time at 4.46 so here is more evidence of the inconsistency and unreliability of reported 40 yard dash times.

[Faison1]

Steve Wiseman on Durant:

http://www.heraldsun.com/sports/college/acc/duke/article160297814.html



Scout lists his 40 time at 4.46 so here is more evidence of the inconsistency and unreliability of reported 40 yard dash times.

It's pretty amazing to think how far recruiting has come. This kid was deciding between Duke and VPI...and 247 Crystal Ball was 100% Duke.

Can any of you believe that???

I can't wait for football season!

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

Steve Wiseman on Durant:

http://www.heraldsun.com/sports/college/acc/duke/article160297814.html



Scout lists his 40 time at 4.46 so here is more evidence of the inconsistency and unreliability of reported 40 yard dash times.
Isn't Durant the second recruit to pick Duke over VT in the past week?

[Olympic Fan]

Isn't Durant the second recruit to pick Duke over VT in the past week?

Yes, three-star CB Nate Thompson picked Duke over Virginia Tech earlier in the week,

But somehow, that discussion ended up in the Football General Thread instead of the recruiting thread.

[chrishoke]

247 Sports has updated their top 247 2018 recruits and 2 Duke commits, Palmer and Rice made the list!

http://247sports.com/Article/Updated-Top247-for-2018-includes-new-No-1-player-Justin-Fields-53509397

[Bob Green]

Future Blue Devil Gunnar Holmberg threw four touchdown passes as Heritage defeated Sanderson 28-7 last night.

http://www.highschoolot.com/person-at-granville-central/16933483/

http://www.newsobserver.com/sports/high-school/article172195762.html

[53n206]

Future Blue Devil Gunnar Holmberg threw four touchdown passes as Heritage defeated Sanderson 28-7 last night.

http://www.highschoolot.com/person-at-granville-central/16933483/

http://www.newsobserver.com/sports/high-school/article172195762.html

Seems his receiver, Grant. would be a good prospect also. Holmberg spoke highly of him.

[Bob Green]

DT Elijah Brown (6'4" 270) from Providence Day School in Charlotte verbally committed to Duke yesterday. He is a 3-Star who picked Duke over Louisville, N.C. State, Wake Forest and East Carolina.

[devildeac]

DT Elijah Brown (6'4" 270) from Providence Day School in Charlotte verbally committed to Duke yesterday. He is a 3-Star who picked Duke over Louisville, N.C. State, Wake Forest and East Carolina.

Very good news. Cut might even have him bulk/muscle up a bit when he arrives in Derm next summer. ;):rolleyes:

[chrishoke]

This is outstanding news. Success breads success. Ben Albert is doing work!

[OldPhiKap]

DT Elijah Brown (6'4" 270) from Providence Day School in Charlotte verbally committed to Duke yesterday. He is a 3-Star who picked Duke over Louisville, N.C. State, Wake Forest and East Carolina.
Welcome, Elijah!

[jimsumner]

The greater Charlotte area has been very good to Cut.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I read a really cool quote in an article on wral.com this morning.


"There’s multiple guys in this 2018 commit list for Duke that are going to be multi-year starters for them, and you look at certain guys, and you can see that he’s got a chance to potentially be an All-Conference level of player. I think that just really shows where the program is going and where it’s really headed. If you are a Duke fan, I don’t know how you can’t be excited about where Coach Cutcliffe has this program headed.”

http://www.wralsportsfan.com/duke-s-4-0-team-heads-into-a-pivotal-program-game-/16976185/

[Bob Green]

RB Mataeo Durant with a huge performance on Friday night:

http://www.indexjournal.com/sports/highschools/durant-scores-touchdowns-on-carries-named-ij-player-of-the/article_5c07228f-4db5-5a57-b08c-cb89c9e63b38.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=user-share


McCormick’s senior running back gashed Calhoun Falls for 202 yards and five touchdowns on 10 carries in a 58-0 win.

[chrishoke]

RB Mataeo Durant with a huge performance on Friday night:

http://www.indexjournal.com/sports/highschools/durant-scores-touchdowns-on-carries-named-ij-player-of-the/article_5c07228f-4db5-5a57-b08c-cb89c9e63b38.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=user-share

LOL. He only played one possession in the second half.

[jimsumner]

LOL. He only played one possession in the second half.

No endurance. That's a real red flag.:)

[PDDuke85]

http://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/duke/article187455528.html

Well that sucks

[CameronBornAndBred]

http://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/duke/article187455528.html

Well that sucks

Ahhhh seeeeeya

Said with respect. As in I respect our coaches will win with or without one player. Happens in FB all the time.

[OldPhiKap]

Hate to hear it. Maybe he’s taking the coaching job at Tennessee.

[BlueTeuf]

...or feared we'd try to turn him into a receiver...

[budwom]

that's a bad loss, seriously. Hopefully no more. Hopefully a few grad transfers.

[killerleft]

Junior O'Daniel: We could hire our own midget, even shorter than his.

Have we ever gotten a recruit in similar fashion? I've heard that Cut doesn't like that game, but does he turn down a previously-signed recruit at another school? Even if they come to him?

[nmduke2001]

Junior O'Daniel: We could hire our own midget, even shorter than his.

Have we ever gotten a recruit in similar fashion? I've heard that Cut doesn't like that game, but does he turn down a previously-signed recruit at another school? Even if they come to him?

Wasn't Daniel Jones and Ivy commit until his high school coach sent Cut some film late in the process and Cut offered after Jones had already committed? I could have the timeline wrong but that's what I remember.

[PDDuke85]

Wasn't Daniel Jones and Ivy commit until his high school coach sent Cut some film late in the process and Cut offered after Jones had already committed? I could have the timeline wrong but that's what I remember.

Also, didn't Duke get QB Chris Katrenick from Bowling Green after Sears bolted?

[ehdg]

Dayum!! This stinks was really hoping he'd stick specially with the way we closed out the regular season. He had to see our Defense wasn't the cause n is a damn good unit!! Here's hoping no one else bolts and we pick up a few more nice recruits.

[Bob Green]

This is unfortunate, but as stated up thread not unusual. Palmer was our highest ranked recruit and the only ESPN300 guy. At least he didn't wait until February. The staff can pursue other options now.

[barely]

Junior O'Daniel: We could hire our own midget, even shorter than his.

Have we ever gotten a recruit in similar fashion? I've heard that Cut doesn't like that game, but does he turn down a previously-signed recruit at another school? Even if they come to him?

Sean Renfree. Originally committed to GT and decommitted when GT hired Paul Johnson. Smart move. Renfree was the #8 pocket QB in the country at least as rated by one service.

[OldPhiKap]

Junior O'Daniel: We could hire our own midget, even shorter than his.


They’d think we’re a bunch of Johnny-come-lately’s.

Better start writing our concession speech.

[jimsumner]

This is unfortunate, but as stated up thread not unusual. Palmer was our highest ranked recruit and the only ESPN300 guy. At least he didn't wait until February. The staff can pursue other options now.

Keep in mind that the new early signing period is in a few weeks and Duke would like to finish or at least come close to finishing in December.

[Bob Green]

Keep in mind that the new early signing period is in a few weeks and Duke would like to finish or at least come close to finishing in December.

Thanks for the reminder - the new early signing period had slipped my mind.

[Olympic Fan]

Not much movement here in the last few weeks as signing day approaches . We did get a second 2019 recruit recently, but there are still a few holes to fill in the 2018 class.

Even with the loss of four-star DB Palmer, we have a strong class -- even if it's a bit small (just 14 commits at the moment). It includes a QB of the future (Gunnar Holmberg), the top-rated DL we've landed since Vince Ogobaase (Tahj Rice), two solid LBs, two quality OLs, a promising RB and at least one quality DB.

From what I understand, the staff is working to add at least one and maybe two more quality OL prospects. We're kind of hurting in that department on our current roster.

There's one other issue. Duke's current roster is loaded with competent, but not outstanding WRs. We don't have a single gamebreaker. Well, this class includes three WRs -- and none is projected as a gamebreaker. All three have a chance to be solid players, but we have plenty of those at the moment.

A four-star WR would be a wonderful late addition.

And with Parker's dismissal, I wonder if we need to add a kicker?

[rtnorthrup]

Not much movement here in the last few weeks as signing day approaches . We did get a second 2019 recruit recently, but there are still a few holes to fill in the 2018 class.

Even with the loss of four-star DB Palmer, we have a strong class -- even if it's a bit small (just 14 commits at the moment). It includes a QB of the future (Gunnar Holmberg), the top-rated DL we've landed since Vince Ogobaase (Tahj Rice), two solid LBs, two quality OLs, a promising RB and at least one quality DB.

From what I understand, the staff is working to add at least one and maybe two more quality OL prospects. We're kind of hurting in that department on our current roster.

There's one other issue. Duke's current roster is loaded with competent, but not outstanding WRs. We don't have a single gamebreaker. Well, this class includes three WRs -- and none is projected as a gamebreaker. All three have a chance to be solid players, but we have plenty of those at the moment.

A four-star WR would be a wonderful late addition.

And with Parker's dismissal, I wonder if we need to add a kicker?

To be specific, I think we are looking for Tackles. There seems to be depth on the team at the Guard spot.

And don't sleep on Dennis Smith. I know based on recruiting services he is not rated as a "gamebreaker" but the kid is legit. And I think Jake Bobo could end up being a real red zone threat with his size.

[jimsumner]

Not currently having an offensive line coach certainly doesn't help Duke close on OL prospects.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Not currently having an offensive line coach certainly doesn't help Duke close on OL prospects.
Did I miss something? When did we lose our OL coach?:confused:

[OldPhiKap]

Did I miss something? When did we lose our OL coach?:confused:

About a week ago. Marcus Johnson to Mississippi State.

http://www.newsobserver.com/sports/college/acc/duke/article189055374.html

[OldPhiKap]

Coach Albert tweeting about a big land. Any info?

[devildeac]

Coach Albert tweeting about a big land. Any info?

I'd expect Bob Green to be on this news...

:D

[Bob Green]

Offensive tackle Peace Addo has verbally committed to Duke:


Peace Addo 😈 ✌🏿‏
@_Peace_Addo
9h9 hours ago
More
To all my Friends, Family and coaches... I’m finally fully committed #DukeGang 😈🔵🏈

[martydoesntfoul]

On Saturday night Baltimore area offensive tackle Peace Addo backed off his commitment to Maine and cast his lot with the Blue Devils.

The 6-foot-6, 297 pound tackle prospect had interest from Maryland and UCLA among others.

[sagegrouse]

On Saturday night Baltimore area offensive tackle Peace Addo backed off his commitment to Maine and cast his lot with the Blue Devils.

The 6-foot-6, 297 pound tackle prospect had interest from Maryland and UCLA among others.

Peace plays for Springbrook HS of Silver Spring, MD, which is on the DC boundary. This means he's a Blue Devil in HS and in college.

[ehdg]

Very interesting that he was originally going to Maine. Was he a late bloomer or something?

[jimsumner]

Probably not good news. Duke was trying to get in on four-star OL Jovaughan Gwynn, from Charlotte. This suggests he's no longer an option for Duke.

[rtnorthrup]

Probably not good news. Duke was trying to get in on four-star OL Jovaughan Gwynn, from Charlotte. This suggests he's no longer an option for Duke.

Curious as to why you think this. Are we at our offer/scholarship limit? With the decommit of Taiyon Palmer I would have thought we would have at least one more. Don't know where I read it, but before the Peace commit, I was thinking we would take 2 more OL. Did the Austin Parker situation change things, i.e. are we looking at making an offer for a K/P?

You are much more in the know, so I will take your word on this.

[dm9e24]

Probably not good news. Duke was trying to get in on four-star OL Jovaughan Gwynn, from Charlotte. This suggests he's no longer an option for Duke.

It was my impression that Gwynn has been down to NC State and South Carolina for a while. We had a number of O-Line prospects in for a visit with a majority of our commits a few weekends back, making me believe that we were still looking to sign a few more O-Linemen, specifically tackles. Gwynn was absent from that weekend.
One of those linemen committed to Appalachian State, although I am not sure we offered.
4 star recruits seem to be allergic to Duke in this class, but we should sign a number of solid 3 star recruits. It is my understanding that Addo is rated a 3 star, so not all bad news.

[UrinalCake]

Very interesting that he was originally going to Maine. Was he a late bloomer or something?

Maybe he has a shellfish allergy?

[chrishoke]

His offer sheet is bizarre - Howard, maine, Morgann State and UCLA.

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

Early Signing Day is Wednesday. I suspect the coaches would like to get a lock on the 2018 class now. It will be interesting to see if any stars hold out until the final signing day in February.

[jimsumner]

It was my impression that Gwynn has been down to NC State and South Carolina for a while. We had a number of O-Line prospects in for a visit with a majority of our commits a few weekends back, making me believe that we were still looking to sign a few more O-Linemen, specifically tackles. Gwynn was absent from that weekend.
One of those linemen committed to Appalachian State, although I am not sure we offered.
4 star recruits seem to be allergic to Duke in this class, but we should sign a number of solid 3 star recruits. It is my understanding that Addo is rated a 3 star, so not all bad news.

That's what I meant by trying to get in with Gwynn. Duke tried to make a late run. Apparently too little, too late.

Kicker is an interesting conundrum. Parker was both the punter and place-kicker. I can't imagine Duke could sign two ACC-level kickers this late in the game. Do they try to bring in a combo kicker? Or fill one of the spots? Or go with what they've got in house? Is Reed an option for next season?

Note that Holmquist should place kick against NIU and either he or Boehme will punt. Both use up their eligibility with that game. In other words, Duke is apparently not using this game as an audition for anyone likely to return next season.

Losing Parker this late in the recruiting cycle is a lot worse than losing Palmer, IMO. It's a big concern.

[Avvocato]

Is Reed an option for next season?

Jim, is there any talk about where Reed is mentally? What he went through last year is tough to come back from. Is there any sense that they can rebuild his confidence and he can in the future kick at this level? Or is he just a lost cause? As for using the bowl game as an audition for next year, while it would be great, I think Cut has to play to win the game. He has the team rebounding from a six-game losing streak, they made it back to a bowl, and I think he needs to keep momentum building for next year and the end of the recruiting cycle. He doesn't want to look like he's not taking the bowl game as seriously as he should. Unfortunately, we don't have so many options. Last year's kicking game was a nightmare. Hopefully we can find some answers next year.

[jimsumner]

Jim, is there any talk about where Reed is mentally? What he went through last year is tough to come back from. Is there any sense that they can rebuild his confidence and he can in the future kick at this level? Or is he just a lost cause? As for using the bowl game as an audition for next year, while it would be great, I think Cut has to play to win the game. He has the team rebounding from a six-game losing streak, they made it back to a bowl, and I think he needs to keep momentum building for next year and the end of the recruiting cycle. He doesn't want to look like he's not taking the bowl game as seriously as he should. Unfortunately, we don't have so many options. Last year's kicking game was a nightmare. Hopefully we can find some answers next year.

Haven't heard anything about Reed since the season began. Until the Parker news broke, I was assuming that Reed was not in Duke's plans.

The topic of place-kicker should come up in tomorrow's signing-day-press-conference.

[Pghdukie]

May all the Un-committed 4 and 5*'s sign on the dotted line that says DUKE. To Bob Green, I hope tomorrow is a very fruitful day. And Thanks for all your effort

[Bob Green]

Wide receiver Jake Bobo NLI is in the house:


Adam Rowe‏
@AdamRoweTDD

#DukeGang18 NLI have already started rolling in as @jak3bobo is in the Dominican, one time zone ahead. Other 14 are expected throughout the morning: https://247sports.com/college/duke/Article/Duke-football-recruiting-Get-ready-for-the-college-football-early-signing-period-112458933 … via @247Sports

[Bob Green]

Defensive tackle Tahj Rice and quarterback Gunnar Holmberg NLI's are in the house. Both players are 4* recruits per ESPN. :cool:

[OldPhiKap]

Wide receiver Jake Bobo NLI is in the house:


Defensive tackle Tahj Rice and quarterback Gunnar Holmberg NLI's are in the house. Both players are 4* recruits per ESPN. :cool:

This is the kind of news I like to see to start my day!

[Bob Green]

Letters are rolling in: Mataeo Durant, Casey Holman, Peace Addo, Maurice McIntyre, Jarett Garner, Nate Thompson, Zamari Ellis, Rocky Shelton, Shaka Heyward...

[Bob Green]

Dennis Smith and Elijiah Brown...

By my count, from stalking Twitter, 14 of 15 NLIs have been signed and received.

[devilseven]

Dennis Smith and Elijiah Brown...

By my count, from stalking Twitter, 14 of 15 NLIs have been signed and received.

Which one is missing? Thanks

[chrishoke]

All 15 are in!

[chrishoke]

http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_LANG=C&ATCLID=211690390&DB_OEM_ID=4200&_ga=2.178632868.1678970564.1513781871-1432719761.1510599207

[ehdg]

Does this complete our class or is there any possibility of picking up another commit or 2?

[rtnorthrup]

Does this complete our class or is there any possibility of picking up another commit or 2?

Saw a tweet from coach DJ today that he is still looking for another cheetah for this class. Would also not be surprised with a K/P, and/or another OL.

[Devil549]

Hopefully we add a couple including a kicker/punter. Is it me or did staff go after tall WRs this recruiting class? Looks like a decent class IMO....check back in 3-5 years.

[Avvocato]

Thanks for all of the updates. Great to lock in the commitments. Takes pressure off as we look for missing pieces. Great news.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Saw that Northwestern's QB is returning for another year. He is their most winning passer; we'll be facing him one more time at their house next season.

[devildeac]

Saw that Northwestern's QB is returning for another year. He is their most winning passer; we'll be facing him one more time at their house next season.

And we'll be there, too. :D

[OldPhiKap]

GoDuke.com has short highlight clips of all 15 players I believe, worth checking out.

Saw a story on the news about semi-local Matteo Durant, he was the lead-guy on local signing day coverage. His video looks nice.

Welcome, all!

[BlueDevil16]

GoDuke.com has short highlight clips of all 15 players I believe, worth checking out.

Saw a story on the news about semi-local Matteo Durant, he was the lead-guy on local signing day coverage. His video looks nice.

Welcome, all!

Any news on how the class will end? A couple more targets? Who should we be looking at?

[jimsumner]

Any news on how the class will end? A couple more targets? Who should we be looking at?

At last week's presser, Cut said Duke was looking at secondary and offensive line to fill out the class.

[dm9e24]

DB Jairus Brents being somewhere near the top of the wish list

[CrazyNotCrazie]

We got another offensive line transfer from Ohio State - Chronicle says he has two years of eligibility, other places say three. He redshirted 2016 and got no playing time in 2017. His dad was an NFL lineman.

http://www.dukechronicle.com/article/2018/01/duke-football-adds-ohio-state-transfer-center-jack-wohlabaugh

[OldPhiKap]

We got another offensive line transfer from Ohio State - Chronicle says he has two years of eligibility, other places say three. He redshirted 2016 and got no playing time in 2017. His dad was an NFL lineman.

http://www.dukechronicle.com/article/2018/01/duke-football-adds-ohio-state-transfer-center-jack-wohlabaugh

"For the second straight year, the Blue Devils picked up an offensive lineman from Ohio State, adding former four-star recruit Jack Wohlabaugh via transfer, Duke announced in a press release Thursday afternoon. Wohlabaugh was the nation's No. 4 center prospect in the Class of 2015, according to Scout, but never found a role with Ohio State—the same school where Evan Lisle began his collegiate career."

Welcome, Jack!

[chrishoke]

Wohlabaugh was rated a four star recruit on Rivals. Great pick up!

[chrishoke]

Wohlabaugh was also Academic All Big Ten in 2017!

[jimsumner]

http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_LANG=C&ATCLID=211691399&DB_OEM_ID=4200

[Olympic Fan]

Just to be clear ... he will have to sit out next season.

And I would guess that he gets (as the Duke release notes) two years of eligibility, not three. The NCAA rarely allows an extra year when a player loses two seasons voluntarily.

[Bob Green]

Wohlabaugh sounds like a solid pick up. It is always good news to add a talented offensive lineman.

[ehdg]

Just to be clear ... he will have to sit out next season.

And I would guess that he gets (as the Duke release notes) two years of eligibility, not three. The NCAA rarely allows an extra year when a player loses two seasons voluntarily.

Interesting though since he hasn't seen any game action from his two years at OSU and Red Shirted his first year in fact shouldn't he have 3 years of eligibility remaining?

Did the Lisle transferring from OSU and playing for us last year have any impact on Wohlabaugh deciding to choose us?

[Bob Green]

Interesting though since he hasn't seen any game action from his two years at OSU and Red Shirted his first year in fact shouldn't he have 3 years of eligibility remaining?

My understanding of the rule is a student-athlete has five years to complete four years of eligibility. NCAA grants a sixth year to complete four years of eligibility sometimes but typically it is because of injury not because a student-athlete misses a second year of competition due to transferring.

[wilson]

Interesting though since he hasn't seen any game action from his two years at OSU and Red Shirted his first year in fact shouldn't he have 3 years of eligibility remaining?

Did the Lisle transferring from OSU and playing for us last year have any impact on Wohlabaugh deciding to choose us?Surely they at least chatted about it.
Do we have a new "disgruntled in Columbus" pipeline?:rolleyes:

[CrazyNotCrazie]

Surely they at least chatted about it.
Do we have a new "disgruntled in Columbus" pipeline?:rolleyes:

And before these two was Jeremy Cash, which worked out very well for us. I also vaguely recall us having a backup QB who transferred from Ohio State in the mid-90s, but I don't think he played very much.

[jimsumner]

And before these two was Jeremy Cash, which worked out very well for us. I also vaguely recall us having a backup QB who transferred from Ohio State in the mid-90s, but I don't think he played very much.

Joe Pickens. But a whole different group of coaches at both schools.

[CameronBlue]

Some years ago I saw a poll of Men's CBB coaches that posed the question which conference was more faithful to NCAA recruiting regs. The accompanying article framed the conversation as whether conferences had the welfare of the true student athlete at heart. The Big Ten was the big winner in that poll, presumably referring only to power 5 conferences. I'm encouraged anytime Duke lands a transfer from the Big Ten. Can't recall any recent transfers from the Big Ten to UNCheat.

[Olympic Fan]

My understanding of the rule is a student-athlete has five years to complete four years of eligibility. NCAA grants a sixth year to complete four years of eligibility sometimes but typically it is because of injury not because a student-athlete misses a second year of competition due to transferring.

Bob, you nailed it.

Five years to play four in the NCAA standard. This kid (not going to try and spell his name yet) took a voluntary redshirt year and now takes a voluntary transfer year. Plus, he was eligible for another year at Ohio State.

That leaves two seasons -- and only two seasons -- to play at Duke.

Note: Sometimes the NCAA grants a sixth year in the case of injury, but there is no injury here. Maybe, if he suffers an injury at Duke, the NCAA will consider a sixth year. But as it stands, he plays just two years at Duke.

[-bdbd]

JW appears to be a G/C type OL, and correct me if I'm mistaken, but I think that we are still in need at the T position for next year. So may be another OL TBD in the coming couple months. But this one looks like a good one! Welcome to Duke!

[jimsumner]

JW appears to be a G/C type OL, and correct me if I'm mistaken, but I think that we are still in need at the T position for next year. So may be another OL TBD in the coming couple months. But this one looks like a good one! Welcome to Duke!

Wohlabaugh is a traditional transfer and a traditional transfer wouldn't help next season. Only a grad-student transfer would be eligible next season.

Duke has Christian Harris, Robert Kraeling, Jake Rimmer, Liam Smith, Reno Rosene and Patrick Leiten as returning offensive tackles. Only Harris and Kraeling have played much. So, we should hope for some spirited competition in the spring.

[chrishoke]

A record number of football recruit early enrollees. Cheer up Duke fans, Spring practice is just around the corner. FOOTBALL SCHOOL!

https://247sports.com/college/duke/Article/Duke-Football-Class-of-2018-early-enrollees-arrive-today-113344767

[jimsumner]

A record number of football recruit early enrollees. Cheer up Duke fans, Spring practice is just around the corner. FOOTBALL SCHOOL!

https://247sports.com/college/duke/Article/Duke-Football-Class-of-2018-early-enrollees-arrive-today-113344767

I'll settle for spring being around the corner, Or even normal winter.

[Bob Green]

Coach Jones and Coach Boyette had an in home visit with Kendrick Torain a few days ago:

http://www.espn.com/college-sports/football/recruiting/player/_/id/227272/kendrick-torain


Kendrick Torain Jr
‏@Kentorain
Jan 25

Great in home visit with Coach Jones and Coach Boyette from Duke university

[Bob Green]

One week to National Signing Day. It appears the staff is working hard on Kendrick Torain:


Kendrick Torain Jr‏
@Kentorain

ANOTHER Great in home visit with the Head man Coach Cutcliffe and the staff from Duke university!!

[chrishoke]

One week to National Signing Day. It appears the staff is working hard on Kendrick Torain:

Kendrick is visiting Duke this weekend. Let's close the deal!

[Bob Green]

Torain to Duke per 247Sports via Twitter:


Corey Bender‏Verified account
@Corey_Bender

Breaking: Coveted CB Kendrick Torain, a former UCLA commit residing in Tampa Bay, just committed to Dave Cutcliffe and #Duke.

[CameronBlue]

Torain to Duke per 247Sports via Twitter:

He may have "only" 3 stars but that's an impressive offer list including National Champ runner-up Georgia.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Sweet! Welcome!

[chrishoke]

He may have "only" 3 stars but that's an impressive offer list including National Champ runner-up Georgia.

Amazing offer list - 26 total. Welcome Kendrick Torain!

[Bob Green]

Today is National Signing Day. Will we see any surprise signings?

[OldPhiKap]

Nice start to the day!!!

[OldPhiKap]

Derek Jones just tweeted that National Signing Day is officially over for a duke. So I am guessing there are no further surprises for us.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Derek Jones just tweeted that National Signing Day is officially over for a duke. So I am guessing there are no further surprises for us.

The day ended before I even woke up!

[Acymetric]

Nice pickup! Surprised there has been no announcement about a new DC (or was it announced and I just missed it)?

[devildeac]

Nice pickup! Surprised there has been no announcement about a new DC (or was it announced and I just missed it)?

Do we have a new DC? :confused:

[CameronBornAndBred]

Is this a down year for recruiting? Rivals has us at 64th. Bleah.

https://n.rivals.com/team_rankings/2018/all-teams/football

[Bob Green]

Is this a down year for recruiting?

I don't think so. It is a smaller class at 16 and recruiting rankings are heavily influenced by class size. Looking at quality, the class has some potential impact players. ESPN has two of our recruits, DT Tahj Rice and QB Gunnar Holmberg, as 4* guys. There are a few 3* guys who were right on the border of being 4* recruits.

The 2017 class had 23 recruits, while the 2016 class had 21. I believe Duke was able to be a bit selective this year. This recruiting class will be just fine.

[CameronBornAndBred]

I don't think so. It is a smaller class at 16 and recruiting rankings are heavily influenced by class size. Looking at quality, the class has some potential impact players. ESPN has two of our recruits, DT Tahj Rice and QB Gunnar Holmberg, as 4* guys. There are a few 3* guys who were right on the border of being 4* recruits.

The 2017 class had 23 recruits, while the 2016 class had 21. I believe Duke was able to be a bit selective this year. This recruiting class will be just fine.

Excellent, thanks for the recap, Bob!

[devildeac]

I don't think so. It is a smaller class at 16 and recruiting rankings are heavily influenced by class size. Looking at quality, the class has some potential impact players. ESPN has two of our recruits, DT Tahj Rice and QB Gunnar Holmberg, as 4* guys. There are a few 3* guys who were right on the border of being 4* recruits.

The 2017 class had 23 recruits, while the 2016 class had 21. I believe Duke was able to be a bit selective this year. This recruiting class will be just fine.

I'll blame you and cuss more at WW the next 2-3 years if you're wrong. ;)

[RepoMan]

Excellent, thanks for the recap, Bob!

If you sort rankings by the average recruiting rating, we go up quite a bit. As Bob says, the relatively small size suggests a poorer class than seems to be the case. While small, the quality is solid

[johnb]

If you sort rankings by the average recruiting rating, we go up quite a bit. As Bob says, the relatively small size suggests a poorer class than seems to be the case. While small, the quality is solid

To underline this: 31 recruiting class rated above us had AVERAGE player ratings below or roughly similar to us (we averaged 3.0, so I said similar if their average rating was below 3.1).

I don't, otoh, know how to play with data so that we are better than Georgia, with their 8 different 5 star players.

But I can say that since Georgia is a major recruiting locus for Cut, it's good for Georgia to recruit at such a high level, since that leaves more excellent players for us.

[jimsumner]

Duke's recruiting classes tend to be undervalued because they don't take into account the fact that most/all of these guys will be eligible in the fall, not always the case with other programs that over-recruit under the assumption that they'll lose a chunk of their incoming recruits to academics.

[BigWayne]

Duke's recruiting classes tend to be undervalued because they don't take into account the fact that most/all of these guys will be eligible in the fall, not always the case with other programs that over-recruit under the assumption that they'll lose a chunk of their incoming recruits to academics.

I was wondering where they are losing guys. You see places like Georgia signing between 20 to 27 guys each year and then redshirting about 10 of them each year. That adds up to a raw roster of around 100 or more scholarship athletes. So they must lose about 5-10 each year out of the announced class.

[English]

I was wondering where they are losing guys. You see places like Georgia signing between 20 to 27 guys each year and then redshirting about 10 of them each year. That adds up to a raw roster of around 100 or more scholarship athletes. So they must lose about 5-10 each year out of the announced class.

Plus they lose a handful early to the National Football League (said in Chris Collinsworth voice).

[JasonEvans]

I was wondering where they are losing guys. You see places like Georgia signing between 20 to 27 guys each year and then redshirting about 10 of them each year. That adds up to a raw roster of around 100 or more scholarship athletes. So they must lose about 5-10 each year out of the announced class.

Between academics (qualifying to get into school and then doing the work to stay there), kids not getting playing time and transferring to smaller programs, and players being kicked off the team for arrest or other troubles, if Georgia (and schools like it) only loses 5-10 players per class over the lifetime of the class then that's pretty good.

-Jason "it is all about football, and not about anything else they may bring to the table for the university when talking about SEC schools" Evans

[CameronBornAndBred]

I missed where Doeren poached us yesterday.


North Carolina State added four additional signees Wednesday to round out its 2018 recruiting class, including a defensive back from Georgia that had previously committed to Duke.
Taiyon Palmer, DB, Lawrencville, Ga. (Archer HS)
Played cornerback and wide receiver at Archer High School for coach Andy Dyer … Finished his prep career with nine interceptions and five career touchdowns … Earned all-state honors as a senior, also all-region and all-county … As a senior, helped team to a 15-1 record and the Georgia 7A state quarterfinals … Ranked as the No. 50 defensive back nationally and the No. 47 prospect in Georgia by rivals.com … Also ranked the No. 32 prospect in Georgia and a 4-star recruit by 247sports.com.

http://www.wralsportsfan.com/nc-state-flips-georgia-db-from-duke-finishes-2018-class-with-25-signees/17320550/

[jimsumner]

I missed where Doeren poached us yesterday.



http://www.wralsportsfan.com/nc-state-flips-georgia-db-from-duke-finishes-2018-class-with-25-signees/17320550/

Palmer de-committed from Duke months ago.

[CameronBornAndBred]

Palmer de-committed from Duke months ago.

Ahhh, cool. Article made it sound like it was a last minute flip.

[Jim3k]

Bobby (Robert) Nelson, QB from Los Gatos. (Calif. for you eastern time zone folks. ;))

Just to get more specific, here is the only link I can find. Doesn't say much, just lists him. Scroll down to the list of February signings, alphabetical N for Nelson.

https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2018/02/07/national-signing-day-high-school-stars-make-commitments-official/

This guy, if the report is correct, seems to be a real surprise. BTW, earlier reports about his size seem to be...well...early. The most current thing I can find is this Hudl link, which shows him to be 6-3, 205. http://www.hudl.com/profile/6376033/Robert-Nelson Pro-style QB. Possible late bloomer since he was earlier reported as 6-1, 185 with no recruiting interest from anyone. Typical Cut mystery find?

Can't find him at GoDuke. So, anyone know more?https://ssl.gstatic.com/ui/v1/icons/mail/images/cleardot.gif

[OldPhiKap]

Bobby (Robert) Nelson, QB from Los Gatos. (Calif. for you eastern time zone folks. ;))

Just to get more specific, here is the only link I can find. Doesn't say much, just lists him. Scroll down to the list of February signings, alphabetical N for Nelson.

https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2018/02/07/national-signing-day-high-school-stars-make-commitments-official/

This guy, if the report is correct, seems to be a real surprise. BTW, earlier reports about his size seem to be...well...early. The most current thing I can find is this Hudl link, which shows him to be 6-3, 205. http://www.hudl.com/profile/6376033/Robert-Nelson Pro-style QB. Possible late bloomer since he was earlier reported as 6-1, 185 with no recruiting interest from anyone. Typical Cut mystery find?

Can't find him at GoDuke. So, anyone know more?https://ssl.gstatic.com/ui/v1/icons/mail/images/cleardot.gif

Los Gatos is a beautiful town. That’s all I’ve got.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

My ex’s sister lived in Los Gatos for several years. Never visited.

Nelson also plays varsity basketball for his high school. Maybe he’s a two sport recruit. Cut’s hiding him for K. Ok, probably not.

[OldPhiKap]

My ex’s sister lived in Los Gatos for several years. Never visited.

Nelson also plays varsity basketball for his high school. Maybe he’s a two sport recruit. Cut’s hiding him for K. Ok, probably not.

Are you saying we’ve found the next Charlie Ward or Rusty LaRue?

Hoping for more Charlie, less Rusty.

[jimsumner]

Are you saying we’ve found the next Charlie Ward or Rusty LaRue?

Hoping for more Charlie, less Rusty.

Umm, Rusty LaRue was pretty darn good. He passed for 2,775 yards as a senior.

Not Heisman Trophy good. But not negligible either.

[budwom]

preferred walkon, Rusty Larue he is not. Los Gatos is nice and has a swell Ferrari dealership in case you're in need...gotta put that silicon valley money someplace...

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

Bobby (Robert) Nelson, QB from Los Gatos. (Calif. for you eastern time zone folks. ;))

Just to get more specific, here is the only link I can find. Doesn't say much, just lists him. Scroll down to the list of February signings, alphabetical N for Nelson.

https://www.eastbaytimes.com/2018/02/07/national-signing-day-high-school-stars-make-commitments-official/

This guy, if the report is correct, seems to be a real surprise. BTW, earlier reports about his size seem to be...well...early. The most current thing I can find is this Hudl link, which shows him to be 6-3, 205. http://www.hudl.com/profile/6376033/Robert-Nelson Pro-style QB. Possible late bloomer since he was earlier reported as 6-1, 185 with no recruiting interest from anyone. Typical Cut mystery find?

Can't find him at GoDuke. So, anyone know more?https://ssl.gstatic.com/ui/v1/icons/mail/images/cleardot.gif
His sister is Sarah Nelson, a red shirt freshman on Duke's volleyball team.

[OldPhiKap]

Umm, Rusty LaRue was pretty darn good. He passed for 2,775 yards as a senior.

Not Heisman Trophy good. But not negligible either.

I didn't mean that as an insult to Rusty. More of a compliment to Charlie.

Rusty was a solid football and basketball player, kinda what I thought Greg Paulus may have been.

[sagegrouse]

His sister is Sarah Nelson, a red shirt freshman on Duke's volleyball team.

A legacy and a preferred walk-on.

[sagegrouse]

I didn't mean that as an insult to Rusty. More of a compliment to Charlie.

Rusty was a solid football and basketball player, kinda what I thought Greg Paulus may have been.

Funny Cameron moments -- the cheer of mock horror -- "Oh no! Not Rusty!" -- when he entered the game.

[CDu]

Funny Cameron moments -- the cheer of mock horror -- "Oh no! Not Rusty!" -- when he entered the game.

LaRue was actually a decent college player who astoundingly bounced around the NBA for a few years. Primarily because of his strength, shooting ability (43% 3pt shooter in college), and willingness to be a role player. But he actually average 10 ppg as a senior, shooting 46% on 3s and 52% on 2s.

[OldPhiKap]

Funny Cameron moments -- the cheer of mock horror -- "Oh no! Not Rusty!" -- when he entered the game.

Yup. I seem to remember an "Oh no! Not Lebo!" chant for Jeff Lebo as well. That was the first time I had heard it, but it may well have originated much earlier than the mid-80's.

[jimsumner]

LaRue also pitched briefly for Wake Forest and was Academic All-ACC at a top-tier university that takes academics seriously.

One could do worse in picking an aspiring role model.

[OldPhiKap]

LaRue also pitched briefly for Wake Forest and was Academic All-ACC at a top-tier university that takes academics seriously.

One could do worse in picking an aspiring role model.

True. But Charlie Ward was able to win the Heisman at FSU without stealing crab legs. So, there’s that too.

[jimsumner]

True. But Charlie Ward was able to win the Heisman at FSU without stealing crab legs. So, there’s that too.

So did Chris Weinke.

And he also played professional baseball.

Somehow, I suspect that this might be the last time we mention Mr. Nelson in that kind of company.

As an aside, look through the media guide for Duke football or any other major-college football program and almost everyone played multiple sports in high school. And Mike Krzyzewski has had some football players play for him. Off the top of my head, I can think of David Colonna and D Bryant and may well be missing someone.

[devildeac]

So did Chris Weinke.

And he also played professional baseball.

Somehow, I suspect that this might be the last time we mention Mr. Nelson in that kind of company.

As an aside, look through the media guide for Duke football or any other major-college football program and almost everyone played multiple sports in high school. And Mike Krzyzewski has had some football players play for him. Off the top of my head, I can think of David Colonna and D Bryant and may well be missing someone.

You might not Love yourself as much after you think about it a bit more...

;)

[CDu]

So did Chris Weinke.

And he also played professional baseball.

Somehow, I suspect that this might be the last time we mention Mr. Nelson in that kind of company.

As an aside, look through the media guide for Duke football or any other major-college football program and almost everyone played multiple sports in high school. And Mike Krzyzewski has had some football players play for him. Off the top of my head, I can think of David Colonna and D Bryant and may well be missing someone.

Reggie Love. Oops, the deaconized one beat me to it.

Also, as an FSU football fan growing up, I can say that Weinke did not deserve that Heisman. Peter Warrick did. I can also say that Charlie Ward DID deserve that Heisman. Fun note: back in those days, the FSU QB didn’t play as freshmen and usually not as sophomores. Ward was actually the punter before he took the QB duties.

And I don’t think saying one prefers a Charlie Ward to a Rusty LaRue should be thought of as a slight to LaRue. Ward was an extraordinary player. LaRue was very good, but a few steps down from from Ward. On both the football field and the court.

[sagegrouse]

So did Chris Weinke.

And he also played professional baseball.

Somehow, I suspect that this might be the last time we mention Mr. Nelson in that kind of company.

As an aside, look through the media guide for Duke football or any other major-college football program and almost everyone played multiple sports in high school. And Mike Krzyzewski has had some football players play for him. Off the top of my head, I can think of David Colonna and D Bryant and may well be missing someone.

How about the "Keeper of the Holy Blackberry," Reggie Love?

[jimsumner]

I actually thought about Reggie Love about 4 A.M.

I do some of best thinking at 4 A.M. :)

Early in his tenure at Duke, Cut had a wide receiver named Austin Kelly. A very-good high-school hoopster and it was rumored for years that he would join the basketball team. Never happened.

And both Martellus Bennett and Terrell Pryor were rumored to be thinking of coming to Duke for football and joining the basketball team. Never went past the wishful-thinking stage.

Then there is Brad Evans, a Durham prepster in the late 1960s. Considered an elite football prospect. Played QB at Durham High School but most saw him as a DB at the next level, maybe an NFL-level safety.

But he surprised most by signing with Vic Bubas' Duke basketball program. He was in the same class as Randy Denton, Dick DeVenzio, Rick Katherman and Steve Litz. Considered a great class.

After the requisite year on the freshman team, Evans backed up Dave Golden in 1969 and earned a starting role in 1970, averaging around 10 ppg.

But he missed football. And Duke's 1970 freshman basketball team included Richie O'Conner, Gary Melchionni and Jeff Dawson, all threats to Evans' PT.

So, he quit hoops and joined Duke's football team. Played wide receiver. Was okay but never regained his prep stature.

All things being equal, I would rather have signed with Vic Bubas than Tom Harp.

But in Evan's case, all things may not have been equal. An intriguing might-have-been.

[Tappan Zee Devil]

I actually thought about Reggie Love about 4 A.M.

I do some of best thinking at 4 A.M. :)

Early in his tenure at Duke, Cut had a wide receiver named Austin Kelly. A very-good high-school hoopster and it was rumored for years that he would join the basketball team. Never happened.

And both Martellus Bennett and Terrell Pryor were rumored to be thinking of coming to Duke for football and joining the basketball team. Never went past the wishful-thinking stage.

Then there is Brad Evans, a Durham prepster in the late 1960s. Considered an elite football prospect. Played QB at Durham High School but most saw him as a DB at the next level, maybe an NFL-level safety.

But he surprised most by signing with Vic Bubas' Duke basketball program. He was in the same class as Randy Denton, Dick DeVenzio, Rick Katherman and Steve Litz. Considered a great class.

After the requisite year on the freshman team, Evans backed up Dave Golden in 1969 and earned a starting role in 1970, averaging around 10 ppg.

But he missed football. And Duke's 1970 freshman basketball team included Richie O'Conner, Gary Melchionni and Jeff Dawson, all threats to Evans' PT.

So, he quit hoops and joined Duke's football team. Played wide receiver. Was okay but never regained his prep stature.

All things being equal, I would rather have signed with Vic Bubas than Tom Harp.

But in Evan's case, all things may not have been equal. An intriguing might-have-been.

I was in a pickup touch football game that included Brad Evans in September of his freshman year. I got open for a fairly long pass and Evans through a bullet, over 20 yards on a straight line that I just couldn't handle. As I stood there, staring at my burning hands, Katherman came over and said, "Don't feel bad, he was the the number 1 high school quarterback in the country last year".
Yeah - it would have been interesting if Evans had played football, but I don't think he could have redeemed those bad Tom Harp teams

** not sure he was actually the #1 ranked quarterback, but that is what Katherman told me

[AtlDuke72]

I was in a pickup touch football game that included Brad Evans in September of his freshman year. I got open for a fairly long pass and Evans through a bullet, over 20 yards on a straight line that I just couldn't handle. As I stood there, staring at my burning hands, Katherman came over and said, "Don't feel bad, he was the the number 1 high school quarterback in the country last year".
Yeah - it would have been interesting if Evans had played football, but I don't think he could those bad Tom Harp teams

** not sure he was actually the #1 ranked quarterback, but that is what Katherman told me

Leo Hart was the quarterback and was in the same class. Hart was terrific with Wes Chesson at wide receiver. They were really good, but the rest of the team was not so hot.

[Jim3k]

I was in a pickup touch football game that included Brad Evans in September of his freshman year. I got open for a fairly long pass and Evans through a bullet, over 20 yards on a straight line that I just couldn't handle. As I stood there, staring at my burning hands, Katherman came over and said, "Don't feel bad, he was the the number 1 high school quarterback in the country last year".
Yeah - it would have been interesting if Evans had played football, but I don't think he could have redeemed those bad Tom Harp teams

** not sure he was actually the #1 ranked quarterback, but that is what Katherman told me

Reminds me of the famous story about a fellow who looked at the quarterback, who was wearing civvies somewhere in public, and began to taunt him, saying he didn't look like an athlete at all and didn't believe he was any sort of football player. He then produced a football, saying 'show me.' So Roger Staubach threw him the football so hard it knocked the dude's watch clean off.

[jimsumner]

Leo Hart was the quarterback and was in the same class. Hart was terrific with Wes Chesson at wide receiver. They were really good, but the rest of the team was not so hot.

Duke was 6-5 during Hart and Chesson's senior year, 1970. Duke had some really good players during that era; Hart, Chesson, Ernie Jackson, Dick Biddle, Henley Carter, Steve Jones, Ed Newman, Rich Searl, et. al. Unfortunately not enough "als." A chronic lack of depth just torpedoed Duke seasons. When the inevitable injuries started to add up, the gap between Duke's starters and Duke's backups seemed to be bigger than the same gap of other teams.

Mike McGee's first team-1971--started 4-0 and 5-1. But when QB Dennis Satyshur went down with a broken hand, McGee had to go with Searl, an All-ACC DB but a senior who hadn't played QB since high school.

And Searl wasn't even the only guy playing offense and defense. Jackson and Newman also played both ways. Probably some others.

That team ended 6-5.

[Devil549]

I thought Evans played freshmen football to begin with...story I always heard when fall practice started Hart was 3rd string behind #1 Evans and Wes was #2 then they moved Wes to WR and Evans decided to give up football mid way through freshman season so Hart took over.

Also heard he was Parade All American and Bear Bryant want him (Evans).

[jimsumner]

I thought Evans played freshmen football to begin with...story I always heard when fall practice started Hart was 3rd string behind #1 Evans and Wes was #2 then they moved Wes to WR and Evans decided to give up football mid way through freshman season so Hart took over.

Also heard he was Parade All American and Bear Bryant want him (Evans).

Evans was a scholarship basketball player as a freshman. I can't state with absolute certainty that he did not play freshman football but I have never heard that and would be surprised if it were true.

And Chesson was used as a running back before being moved to wide receiver as a junior. He did not play QB at Duke.

Duke actually expected a player named Al Woodall to be their starting QB in 1968. But he fell prey to academics and Hart beat out a guy named Dave Trice.

Woodall was good enough to play in the NFL. Actually had a better pro career than Hart.

As an aside, Hart was a pretty good pitcher at Duke.

[OZZIE4DUKE]

Al Woodall was Joe Willie Namath’s backup for years with the Jets. He got to play when Namath got hurt. Which wasn’t often until his later years. Much like Don Strock playing behind Dan Marino. Too big a talent gap for the fans to be happy.

[OldPhiKap]

Al Woodall was Joe Willie Namath’s backup for years with the Jets. He got to play when Namath got hurt. Which wasn’t often until his later years. Much like Don Strock playing behind Dan Marino. Too big a talent gap for the fans to be happy.

Terry Bradshaw said that he couldn’t get in the field in college because the starter was too good. That starter was Phil Robertson, now famous for being the patriarch of the Duck Dynasty family and developer of the Duck Commander duck call. Phil quit football because it was during duck season, giving Bradshaw a chance to play.

[budwom]

Reminds me of the famous story about a fellow who looked at the quarterback, who was wearing civvies somewhere in public, and began to taunt him, saying he didn't look like an athlete at all and didn't believe he was any sort of football player. He then produced a football, saying 'show me.' So Roger Staubach threw him the football so hard it knocked the dude's watch clean off.

Roger and I had a wee chat in 1982 accompanied by a chimpanzee in a Santa Claus suit (as I clutched a frisbee sized margarita). Things in Texas are different.

[sagegrouse]

Bob Jamieson, class of 1964, from Greensboro was a member of the recruiting class that included Jeff Mullins, Jay Buckley and Buzzy Harrison. He played sparingly his sophomore and junior years and in his senior year joined the football team and won a letter as a safety. He was a bruiser on both the court and the field.

[jimsumner]

Back in the good old days, multi-sport stars were common. Dick Groat, Dave Sime, Bill Werber, Ace Parker, Eric Tipton, George McAfee, Gordon Carver, Ernie Jackson and others didn't just participate in more than one sport, they starred in more than one sport.

Don "Ace" Altman QB'd Duke to a Cotton Bowl win in January 1961 and pitched Duke to the College World Series that spring.

Bob Gantt appeared on the cover of Look Magazine in the 1940s as "Dixie's Finest Athlete." He was a football end, a basketball center and weight guy for t&f. Played in one of the NBA's precursors, Duke's first NBA player.

Ed Koffenberger was a basketball star, who picked up lacrosse at UNC and became a lacrosse All-American.

UNC you say? It was WWII and Koffenberger was in the Navy officer training program there. He told the powers that be that he wanted to be an engineer and he was on the next train to Duke, all eight miles worth. But while he was at UNC, he was introduced to lacrosse. Duke derived great benefit from that.

It wasn't just Duke. It was just par for the course in an era where specialization was codified. And seasons were shorter, meaning less overlap.

[jv001]

Back in the good old days, multi-sport stars were common. Dick Groat, Dave Sime, Bill Werber, Ace Parker, Eric Tipton, George McAfee, Gordon Carver, Ernie Jackson and others didn't just participate in more than one sport, they starred in more than one sport.

Don "Ace" Altman QB'd Duke to a Cotton Bowl win in January 1961 and pitched Duke to the College World Series that spring.

Bob Gantt appeared on the cover of Look Magazine in the 1940s as "Dixie's Finest Athlete." He was a football end, a basketball center and weight guy for t&f. Played in one of the NBA's precursors, Duke's first NBA player.

Ed Koffenberger was a basketball star, who picked up lacrosse at UNC and became a lacrosse All-American.

UNC you say? It was WWII and Koffenberger was in the Navy officer training program there. He told the powers that be that he wanted to be an engineer and he was on the next train to Duke, all eight miles worth. But while he was at UNC, he was introduced to lacrosse. Duke derived great benefit from that.

It wasn't just Duke. It was just par for the course in an era where specialization was codified. And seasons were shorter, meaning less overlap.

Wasn't Sonny Jurgenson a very good football player and basketball player in high school? I think he played in the East-West Allstar game as a basketball player, instead of the football game. GoDuke!

[Devil549]

Evans was a scholarship basketball player as a freshman. I can't state with absolute certainty that he did not play freshman football but I have never heard that and would be surprised if it were true.

And Chesson was used as a running back before being moved to wide receiver as a junior. He did not play QB at Duke.

Duke actually expected a player named Al Woodall to be their starting QB in 1968. But he fell prey to academics and Hart beat out a guy named Dave Trice.

Woodall was good enough to play in the NFL. Actually had a better pro career than Hart.

As an aside, Hart was a pretty good pitcher at Duke.

Thanks for clarification Jim.

[Devil549]

You are correct jv001 Sonny played in basketball East West game at the annual all star games the North Carolina Coaches’ Assoc. has every year in Greensboro.

Ted Brown All ACC running back from NC State also played in the basketball game instead of the football game.

[camion]

You are correct jv001 Sonny played in basketball East West game at the annual all star games the North Carolina Coaches’ Assoc. has every year in Greensboro.

Ted Brown All ACC running back from NC State also played in the basketball game instead of the football game.

Just wondering, was Sonny’s basketball shooting form as funky as his football throwing motion?

[sagegrouse]

Wasn't Sonny Jurgenson a very good football player and basketball player in high school? I think he played in the East-West Allstar game as a basketball player, instead of the football game. GoDuke!

I read that '50s coach Harold Bradley wanted Sonny to play basketball.

With respect to football all-star games: Jurgenson said that the North Carolina HS players got together after the game and discussed where they go to college. Obviously, Sonny made a good choice.

I don't know if he played in the HS all-star game, and I don't know if there was one -- there wasn't one in South Carolina back in that time.

[Devilwin]

First great Duke rb I recall was Jay Calabrese, who rushed for over 1801 yards in his three years, '65, '66, '67.

[jimsumner]

Sonny was the best youth tennis player in North Carolina and a great high-school catcher. Imagine trying to run on that arm.

Many remember him as a tubby, pass-only QB for the Skins. But he was a superb athlete in his younger days.

Jim Spanarkel pitched for Duke for two seasons. In fact, one of the reasons he came to Duke was Foster's assurance that he could play both sports at Duke.

Mike Gminski was a national champion in Punt, Pass and Kick. Age 12, IIRC. He told me he never played football because he was always too big for his age group and his parents didn't want him to play against older kids. Seemed to work out for him.

After retiring from the NBA, Jack Marin made a killing on the celebrity golf-tour.

I still think Dave Sime takes first place.

He was a national-class youth speed skater.

Came to Duke on a baseball scholarship. All-ACC caliber baseball player.

Track coach saw him running and convinced him to try track. Became a world-record holder in a few years. Had he not been injured in 1956, he might have won three Olympic golds.

Got a silver in 1960 and missed a gold when a bad pass upstream disqualified the U.S. 4X100 relay team from an apparent win.

While in med school, he played wide receiver for the football team. Fastest man in the world and Bill Murray still ran the ball every play.

And his descendants include Max McCaffrey,

[Jim3k]

Roger and I had a wee chat in 1982 accompanied by a chimpanzee in a Santa Claus suit (as I clutched a frisbee sized margarita). Things in Texas are different.

I will be happy to drink a frisbee-sized margarita with you. Not necessary to share. I think each of us can still manage a whole one by ourselves. Chimp not necessary as a prop; prefer plush Blue Devil. If Staubach wants to show up, so be it. Anyone else?

Location may be an issue since Vermont and California are...well...not close. But Vermont-made margaritas cannot be trusted.