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Head Coach: Mike Elko, 1st year: 9-4
Duke Blue Devils Football Preview 2023
The Duke Blue Devils are coming off a 6-6 season in 2022, their best record since 2013. The team was led by new head coach Mike Elko, who brought a defensive-minded approach to Durham. The Blue Devils ranked 28th in the country in total defense in 2022, and they will look to build on that success in 2023.
The offense is also poised for improvement in 2023. Quarterback Riley Leonard returns for his senior season, and he will be joined by a talented group of receivers, including Leonard Johnson, Jake Bobo, and Jalon Calhoun. The running game should also be improved, with Mataeo Durant returning after a breakout season in 2022.
The Blue Devils have a tough schedule in 2023, but they have the talent to compete with anyone. They will open the season against Clemson, and they will also face Notre Dame, Florida State, and Wake Forest. If Duke can avoid any major injuries, they should be in contention for a bowl game in 2023.
Key Players
- Riley Leonard, QB: Leonard is the returning starter at quarterback, and he will be looking to build on his strong 2022 season. He threw for 2,600 yards and 16 touchdowns last year, and he also rushed for 400 yards and three touchdowns.
- Leonard Johnson, WR: Johnson is one of the most explosive receivers in the ACC. He caught 59 passes for 800 yards and five touchdowns last year, and he is a threat to take it to the house every time he touches the ball.
- Jake Bobo, WR: Bobo is another talented receiver who will be a key part of the Blue Devils' offense in 2023. He caught 48 passes for 600 yards and five touchdowns last year, and he is a reliable target for Leonard.
- Jalon Calhoun, WR: Calhoun is a rising star at wide receiver for the Blue Devils. He caught 27 passes for 400 yards and two touchdowns last year, and he is expected to have a breakout season in 2023.
- Mataeo Durant, RB: Durant is the leading returning rusher for the Blue Devils in 2023. He rushed for 1,000 yards and seven touchdowns last year, and he is a powerful runner who can break tackles.
- Graham Barton, OL: Barton is one of the best offensive linemen in the ACC. He was a first-team All-ACC selection in 2022, and he is a key anchor on the Blue Devils' offensive line.
Team Statistics
- Overall record: 6-6
- ACC record: 3-5
- Scoring offense: 30.3 points per game
- Scoring defense: 22.3 points per game
- Total offense: 422.3 yards per game
- Total defense: 363.2 yards per game
Prediction
The Blue Devils have the talent to win eight or nine games in 2023. They have a tough schedule, but they should be able to compete with most teams in the ACC. If they can stay healthy and avoid any major upsets, they should be in contention for a bowl game.
Final Thoughts
The Duke Blue Devils are poised for a breakthrough season in 2023. They have a talented roster, and they are led by a strong coaching staff. If they can stay focused and execute, they should be able to win eight or nine games and make a bowl game.