Duke Football: 3 upperclassmen who must step up in 2022

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On September 10, 2021, in Durham, North Carolina, USA, Duke Blue Devils wide receiver Eli Pancol (6) runs after a reception against the North Carolina A&T Aggies during the third quarter at Wallace Wade Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Howard-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Eli Pancol, WR

This spot could have been the entire Duke receiver room. The Blue Devils lacked an explosive perimeter threat last season. No receiver with ten or more catches averaged 15 yards per reception. The lack of explosive play ability allowed defenses to key in on running back Mataeo Durant.

Last season’s leading receiver Jake Bobo has transferred to UCLA, but the Blue Devils return two of their four top receivers. Senior wide receiver Eli Pancol is one of those receivers. Duke also returns last season’s second-leading receiver Jalon Calhoun but needs Pancol, Darrell Harding, Jr., and junior receiver Jontavis Roberston to step up this season.

Offensive coordinator Kevin Johns likely uses Calhoun as his “volume” receiver. Johns needs a solid complementary receiver, so defenses do not solely focus on Calhoun. Pancol could be that receiver.

Because of the coaching changes, it is difficult to know which of these receivers will step up and be a solid number two alongside Calhoun. No matter which receiver it is, Duke needs this group to play well as Johns and the coaching staff attempt to figure out who will play quarterback this fall.

A solidified wide receiver room would help a new quarterback get comfortable in the offense.

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