At 7-3, the Duke Blue Devils could build upon an already impressive 2024 football season over the final two games. The first of those chances comes on Saturday night when they face the Virginia Tech Hokies.
The Blue Devils’ defense has been their strength so far this season, specifically the secondary. However, their run defense hasn’t been the greatest, which could make for a poor matchup with the Hokies.
Duke has allowed 149.3 yards per game on the ground this season, 71st among FBS teams. The Blue Devils improve on a per-play basis, moving up to 44th at 3.83 yards allowed per carry, and they’ve only given up 10 rushing touchdowns in 10 games, but it’s a far cry from their pass defense (12th in yards per attempt).
On the flip side, the Virginia Tech rushing offense ranks 36th in the nation with 185.3 yards per game. The Hokies are one of five ACC teams averaging more than five yards per attempt, and that is mostly carried by running back Bhayshul Tuten.
On the season, Tuten amassed 951 yards and 12 touchdowns on 146 attempts, an average of 6.51 yards per tote. He’s eclipsed 100 yards five times, including a 266-yard performance against Boston College that included three trips to the end zone.
Quarterback Kyron Drones also deserves attention for the Hokies’ offense on the ground. The redshirt junior has added 336 rushing yards and six touchdowns.
Those two have more than 69% of the team’s rushing production in 2024. If Duke is to win this game, the key will be limiting Tuten and Drones.