Previewing NC State’s Opponent: Duke

NC State (5-4) will host Duke (6-2) this afternoon. Before they take the field, here’s a preview of the Blue Devils.

After starting the season 5-0, Duke has lost 3 of the last 4 games.

Sophomore Quarterback Maalik Murphy has thrown for 2,121 yards, completing 58.9% of his passes. He has thrown 20 touchdowns and 8 interceptions, with a Passing Efficiency Rating of 130.0. Murphy transferred to Duke from Texas this offseason.

Senior Running Back Star Thomas has rushed for 706 yards and 5 touchdowns, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. Sophomore Running Back Peyton Jones has rushed for 298 yards and 3 touchdowns.

Senior Wide Receiver Jordan Moore has 556 receiving yards and 5 touchdown receptions. Senior Wide Receiver Eli Pancol has 482 receiving yards and 6 touchdown receptions.

Top-5 Highest Grade Offensive Players

1. Tackle Brian Parker II – 77.3
2. RB Star Thomas – 75.1
3. WR Jordan Moore – 74.6
4. QB Maalik Murphy – 72.9
5. WR Eli Pancol – 71.5

Senior Linebacker Ozzie Nicholas leads the team with 62 tackles.

Senior Linebacker Alex Howard leads Duke with 11 tackles for loss and 5 sacks. He also has 60 tackles.

Junior Cornerback Chandler Rivers leads the Blue Devils with 3 interceptions and 8 pass breakups.

Top-5 Highest Graded Defensive Players

1. CB Chandler Rivers – 87.1
2. S Terry Moore – 85.8
3. DT Aaron Hall – 76.8
4. DE Vincent Anthony Jr. – 74.8
5. LB Ozzie Nicholas – 73.4

As a team, Duke ranks 15th in the ACC in total offense (343.7) and  13th in scoring (26.6). They rank 5th in total defense (349.1) and 5th in scoring defense (22.4).