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ACC Football Power Rankings, Week 6: Hurricanes downgraded to rain shower

By Dante Pryor

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 02: The Clemson Tigers offense lines up against the Miami Hurricanes defense in the second quarter during the ACC Football Championship at Bank of America Stadium on December 2, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 02: The Clemson Tigers offense lines up against the Miami Hurricanes defense in the second quarter during the ACC Football Championship at Bank of America Stadium on December 2, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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Oct 10, 2020; Syracuse, New York, USA; Duke Blue Devils wide receiver Dennis Smith (14) runs with the ball after a catch in front of Syracuse Orange defensive back Garrett Williams (14) during the third quarter at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 10, 2020; Syracuse, New York, USA; Duke Blue Devils wide receiver Dennis Smith (14) runs with the ball after a catch in front of Syracuse Orange defensive back Garrett Williams (14) during the third quarter at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

15. Duke Blue Devils (1-4, 1-4)

Duke head coach David Cutcliffe said that the ‘Devils have enough playmakers to win games in the ACC. Those playmakers showed up against Syracuse as the Blue Devils ended their four game losing streak to start the season and defeated the Orange in the Carrier Dome. Duke quarterback, Clemson transfer Chace Brice had his finest game as Blue Devil throwing for 270 yards and two touchdowns

What was most encouraging for Duke was the running game. The Blue Devils racked up 363 rushing yards. Duke running backs Deon Jackson and Mataeo Durant each ran for 150 yards. The Duke defense was equally up to the task sacking Syracuse quarterback Tommy DeVito six times.

It is possible the most difficult part of Duke’s schedule is behind them. They have been in most every game this season. Their toughest opponent, Notre Dame is behind them. They have UNC and NC State over the next month — their two toughest remaining games.

The rest of their schedule looks manageable. Chase Brice’s issues with interceptions and sacks won’t be much of an issue. The teams remaining on their schedule do not have great defenses. It seems as if Duke is finally putting it all together especially without spring and summer practice.

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