Duke Gears Up to Face No. 9 Clemson in Season Opener
Duke football coach Mike Elko is both excited and aware of the challenge that awaits his team in the season opener against No. 9 Clemson. The Blue Devils are coming off a surprisingly successful 9-4 season and are looking to build on that momentum. Facing the defending Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) champions and favorites to win it again this year would be a great start.
Elko recognizes the talent and capabilities of Clemson. With players like all-ACC tailback Will Shipley and starting quarterback Cade Klubnik, who rallied the Tigers to their seventh ACC crown in eight years, the Clemson offense is a force to be reckoned with. On the defensive side, players like Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Tyler Davis have the potential to be All-Americans.
Duke, however, is ready for the challenge. With eight offensive and defensive starters returning, led by quarterback Riley Leonard, the Blue Devils have a strong foundation to build upon. Leonard had an impressive season last year, throwing for 20 touchdowns and running for 13 more. He also displayed great accuracy with a completion rate of nearly two-thirds and minimized turnovers with just six interceptions.
It’s worth noting that Duke has had a historically tough time against top 10 teams, losing their last 28 matchups. Their last victory against a top 10 team came in 1989 when they beat then-No. 7 Clemson. However, the Blue Devils are determined to change that narrative and are prepared to give their best performance.
As for Clemson, they are eager to get back to the College Football Playoff. The team’s last national title came in 2018, and coach Dabo Swinney is determined to lead his team to another championship. The Tigers view the game against Duke as an opportunity to showcase their skills on a national stage.
This matchup between Duke and Clemson will be a highly anticipated game. Duke hasn’t beaten Clemson since 2004, and the Tigers have dominated the ACC for years. However, the Blue Devils have a chance to make a statement and show that they can compete with the best.
Duke vs. Clemson will kick off the college football season on Monday night, with the game being broadcasted on ESPN at 8 p.m. Fans and football enthusiasts alike will be tuning in to witness this exciting clash between two talented teams.
