321) Wake Forest Wakeboarders (-3) over the wounded little devils. [B]1.25% play[/B]
[url]https://www2.journalnow.com/sports/2011/oct/19/wssport04-devils-focus-on-defense-ar-1513483/[/url]
DURHAM --
Duke gave up too many big pass plays in its loss to Florida State last week. The Blue Devils know those struggles can't carry over to Saturday's game against Wake Forest and its strong passing attack.
The Demon Deacons (4-2, 3-1 ACC) have won 11 straight meetings and averaged 43 points in the past four meetings with the Blue Devils (3-3, 1-1). Wake Forest enters the game with the league's third-ranked passing attack, which could mean another tough day for a secondary that gave up three 50-yard completions in the 41-16 loss to the Seminoles.
Vs. FSU......Duke was coming off a bye week, three starting defensive backs were listed as questionable or doubtful with leg injuries entering the contest. Matt Daniels and Johnny Williams were two of the injured that played, and perhaps their ailments kept them a step behind Florida State’s receivers, allowing Manuel to throw deep completions with ease.
Manuel racked up 202 passing yards in the first half and he likely could have thrown for far more than 239 yards, but the Seminoles transitioned to a ground-heavy attack in the second half.
The Blue Devils have allowed 30.2 points per game through their first six games of the season, tied for worst in the ACC. The defense is in its first season under defensive coordinator Jim Knowles and his 4-2-5 formation. While the team’s rushing defense has improved, its passing defense continues to struggle, surrendering over 270 yards per game through the air, worst in the conference.
