Duke Football: 3 takeaways from blowout win over Virginia Tech

BLACKSBURG, VA - SEPTEMBER 27: Quarterback Quentin Harris #18 of the Duke Blue Devils rushes during a long touchdown run against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium on September 27, 2019 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images)
BLACKSBURG, VA - SEPTEMBER 27: Quarterback Quentin Harris #18 of the Duke Blue Devils rushes during a long touchdown run against the Virginia Tech Hokies at Lane Stadium on September 27, 2019 in Blacksburg, Virginia. (Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next
(Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images)
(Photo by Michael Shroyer/Getty Images) /

3. Quentin Harris looked unbeatable for the Blue Devils

Duke quarterback Quentin Harris plays a very different type of game than his predecessor at starting quarterback. Whereas Daniel Jones is a more prototypical pocket passer, Harris offers an extra dual-threat dimension on the gridiron that puts him right among the most dangerous field generals in the conference.

Harris threw for just 163 yards on 20-of-27 passing, but two of those throws went for touchdowns. Most importantly, Virginia Tech failed to haul in a few prime chances to pick off the ball and flip the script.

If that was all Harris had been able to do on Friday night, it might well have been enough for the Blue Devils to sneak the victory on the road. But the quarterback was also Duke’s leading rusher on the night, finishing with 100 yards and a rushing touchdown on 17 carries. Churning out nearly six yards per carry, Harris proved elusive and dangerous whenever Virginia Tech tried to get pressure.

If Harris can continue to play at this level throughout the year, Duke will have a real chance to push Virginia and North Carolina for the chance to play against Clemson in the ACC championship game at the end of the regular season.