Spring Practice/Game Dates

[CameronBornAndBred]

Duke’s defensive linemen combined for six sacks and safety Jacques Bristow intercepted a pair of passes to highlight Wednesday morning’s 85-snap scrimmage at Wallace Wade Stadium.

http://www.goduke.com/ViewArticle.dbml? ... EM_ID=4200

SIX?!!! Somebody needs to teach Boone how to run!! Boone had one INT, Sirk had the other. It doesn't say who took the brunt of the sacks.

[The Football Fan]

Now, see there, the defense comes up with a really strong performance...one of the picks on Sirk was due to a tipped pass (per watching the highlight reel) and the other was on a long shot to the endzone. From other highlight reels, it seems our DBs have gotten a few of those. The positive is that perhaps, we're finally getting some better plays on those deep plays that haunt us every year. The negative could be Sirk still needs to work on accuracy going down the field. Coach did mention they haven't been working on that as much, so I'm not too concerned.

Overall, it sounds good. I'm really optimistic about this year. I still don't know that we've got a realistic shot at the Orange Bowl, but I think we've got a great chance to go bowling again. I think a winning season is the next very real step that we're going to achieve. I also think we're going to get one of those marquee upsets. Depending on how things go, we may be able to crack the top 25.

[Bob Green]

Overall, it sounds good. I'm really optimistic about this year. I still don't know that we've got a realistic shot at the Orange Bowl, but I think we've got a great chance to go bowling again. I think a winning season is the next very real step that we're going to achieve. I also think we're going to get one of those marquee upsets. Depending on how things go, we may be able to crack the top 25.

I agree another bowl game, a winning season, a marquee upset and cracking the top 25 are all possibilities in 2013. The schedule has a couple of unknowns for me: how will State be under their first year coach and Pittsburgh who I know nothing about. One thing is for sure, in order to achieve success this team must win conference games on the road. Every Duke fan can go ahead and circle in red on their calendar October 19 and November 23.

As far as marquee upsets go Georgia Tech early or Miami late are the possibilities during the regular season. Perhaps we will get the opportunity to knock off some big name team in a bowl game.

[Bob Green]

Here is a nice article on the offensive line:

http://www.goduke.com//ViewArticle.dbml ... =207067865

I am optimistic they will take a huge step forward in 2013 to become a dominant unit. Duplicating the way we ran the ball against Cincy, in the Belk Bowl, week in and week out, would be huge progress. I'm looking forward to seeing Duke beat teams physically so they are wore out in the 4th quarter.

[Bob Green]

It's Game Day! I love typing that. See ya'll this afternoon.

[Bob Green]

The Spring Game was an enjoyable afternoon that included a tour of the Yoh Center and the opportunity to walk through the tunnel and onto the field during warm-ups. There was a decent crowd basking in the sunshine while cheering on the team.

Here are some random thoughts:

* John Coleman (#70) had a rough day at center for the 2nd squad with several bad snaps.
* Long snapper Thomas Hennessy (#57) looked good.
* The game was almost penalty free although Sam Marshall (#99) was flagged for a face mask.
* The read option was utilized, but with the QBs wearing green jerseys and downed by two hand touch it is very challenging to assess effectiveness.
* Anthony Boone (#7) looked smooth running the 1st squad offense although he was inaccurate throwing the ball deep. His two interceptions are concerning as well.
* True freshman Parker Boehme (#12) played QB for the 2nd squad and was shaky early but settled down as the game progressed. He appears to have good agility or elusiveness.
* Outside of Jamison Crowder (#3), I was not impressed with the level of speed at receiver.
* Max McCaffrey (#87) had a couple of good catches. It looks like he could develop into an important possession receiver. The go to guy with great hands who can get the team a catch in vital situations.
* We utilized our Tight Ends as split receivers with two back formations being the norm all afternoon. The pistol is gone.
* The running game was solid especially deeper in the game. Duncan (#25), Snead (#9) and Powell (#28) all looked good running the ball.
* The 1st squad defensive line was able to pressure Anthony Boone. I thought Dez Johnson (#42) looked really good coming off the end.
* Linebacker and cornerback are positions off concern. At linebacker we really need players to get healthy. Kelby Brown (#59) and David Helton (#47) did not play nor did freshman Dominic McDonald (#51).
* Devon Edwards (#27) and Evrett Edwards (#2) saw a lot of action at cornerback. They are works in progress. Ross Cockrell (#6) did not play.
* Jeremy Cash (#16) looks like the real deal at safety. On his interception, he stepped in front of the receiver and made a nice catch. He also demonstrated the ability to come up and provide support defending the run.
* Other notable players who did not participate include Brandon Connette (#18), Brandon Braxton (#5), Kenny Anunike (#84) and Braxton Deaver (#89).

Those are off the top the head observations as I didn't take notes during the game but I did sit with and engage in an enjoyable conversation with pbc2 throughout the afternoon. I would be very interested in hearing comments from others who attended the game. Let's talk some football!

[Devil in the Blue Dress]

A few comments to add:
It's important to note that this was Parker Boehme's first practice yesterday. I thought he did very well considering the limited time to learn a variety of plays or to establish some sort of timing with any receivers.

Jeremy Cash is going to be an important play maker next year.

The atmosphere for the pre game activities was marvelous. Tailgate tents were set up near the entrance of Cameron and the North Game of Wallace Wade. (We were over near the Murray Building.) The air sandwiches and conversations made for a festive atmosphere. The Devil Walk was more informal than on a live game day, allowing fans to interact more with the players.

Another highlight of the day was the bowl rings which popped up yesterday! They are every bit as spectacular as the 2010 national championship rings.

[DevilWearsPrada2.0]

Thanks for all the comments!!!!! Glad you guys enjoyed the Spring game!!!!

[The Football Fan]

I agree with most everything Mr. Green put above. I'm concerned about the WR spot too. I'm kinda hoping Joshnell or Alls have something special in the tank. Still, with Crowder's speed and playmaking, solid hands of Max, and the height and speed combo of Blakeney, I think we'll be okay. I just expect us to do more running. Not against Memphis or NC Central mind you, but in the meat of the schedule.

I was a bit surprised with John Coleman being the center for the white team. It made wonder if we just got that thin or if Coach didn't want to put someone on that squad for just this game.

I think our defensive backfield has potential. I think in years past, we've been getting the max out of our talent back there. We just lacked the talent to stop really good teams like Clemson or Fl.St.. Scheme only does so much when you're overmatched and that was the situation to me. One or two players doesn't make a backfield when you're playing a 4-2-5. I'm not suggesting we've got lights out talent, but we got better. The first few games out of the gate, I don't know they play much better than last year, but by the end of the year, I think they should be much better.

Really though, I just want to see everyone healthy for the Fall. Is that too much to ask...I know Sirk is out, but everyone else....

Watched the game on ESPN 3, they did a good job. The announcers really took the game seriously. They didn't fumble words trying to figure out who the players were and they were positive about the action. Still, wish I could have been there.

[Bob Green]

Here are four thoughts from Laura Keeley:

http://blogs.newsobserver.com/dukenow/d ... g-practice

1. ••• There are shades of Conner Vernon in Max McCaffrey
2. ••• Braxton Deaver’s presence at tight end will aid the offense
3. ••• There is more depth on the offensive line
4. ••• Big plays remain an issue for the defense

[CameronBornAndBred]

4. ••• Big plays remain an issue for the defense

Hope they fix that issue by kickoff. Big plays against a defense snatch defeat from the jaws of victory.

[Bob Green]

Here is a nice YouTube spring practice video recap:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJOCejBv ... e=youtu.be

Over on DBR, I warned people the music is atrocious. Here at CTN I will tell you it fucking sucks ass!!! Rap Crap has absolutely no socially redeeming qualities. Damn, I'm old and cranky...get off my yard!

[devildeac]

Here is a nice YouTube spring practice video recap:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJOCejBv ... e=youtu.be

Over on DBR, I warned people the music is atrocious. Here at CTN I will tell you it fucking sucks ass!!! Rap Crap has absolutely no socially redeeming qualities. Damn, I'm old and cranky...get off my yard!

Go find one of these to drink:

[CameronBornAndBred]

Andrea Adelson looks at Max McCaffrey and his spring performance.

http://espn.go.com/blog/acc/post/_/id/5 ... lue-devils

[Bob Green]

I was perusing the magazine rack today and picked up a copy of the ACC Sports Journal Summer Edition. I used to live for these type magazines, but the Internet has changed the face of sports fandom. Anyway, the Summer Edition has a recap on spring practice for each team and the Duke write-up is penned by Al Featherston. It's a good read! Here are a couple of takeaways:

1. The defensive line is very experienced. A healthy Jamal Bruce at nose tackle is expected to be a big advantage. Coach Cutcliffe emphasizes the amount of snaps guys like Sarimento, Wallace, Foxx and Dez Johnson have played. These guys could gel and be a force in 2013 (those are my words not Featherston or Cutcliffe's).

2. Ross Cockrell is a stud. Jeremy Cash was the most impressive player during the spring. Kelby Brown is healthy and will anchor the linebackers! Dwayne Norman is a solid safety.

Wow! Our defense just might be a lot better in 2013. Those are magical words to me. If our defense can step it up, and our offense continues to click, I see victories. Victories my friends, allow me to say it one more time - victories.

Speaking of the offense, Al's article discusses the switch to the read option and the impact of Thomas Sirks's injury. Coach Cutcliffe states he can't play cautious. My interpretation of his comments (and I admit upfront I'm reading between the lines) is Parker Boehme will play as a true freshman. Boone will be the starter, Connette will play in the Wildcat and Boehme will see action in situational relief of Boone.

Anyway, if you have a spare $6 in your pocket, the ACC Sports Journal Summer Edition is worth it.

[devildeac]

I was perusing the magazine rack today and picked up a copy of the ACC Sports Journal Summer Edition. I used to live for these type magazines, but the Internet has changed the face of sports fandom. Anyway, the Summer Edition has a recap on spring practice for each team and the Duke write-up is penned by Al Featherston. It's a good read! Here are a couple of takeaways:

1. The defensive line is very experienced. A healthy Jamal Bruce at nose tackle is expected to be a big advantage. Coach Cutcliffe emphasizes the amount of snaps guys like Sarimento, Wallace, Foxx and Dez Johnson have played. These guys could gel and be a force in 2013 (those are my words not Featherston or Cutcliffe's).

2. Ross Cockrell is a stud. Jeremy Cash was the most impressive player during the spring. Kelby Brown is healthy and will anchor the linebackers! Dwayne Norman is a solid safety.

Wow! Our defense just might be a lot better in 2013. Those are magical words to me. If our defense can step it up, and our offense continues to click, I see victories. Victories my friends, allow me to say it one more time - victories.

Speaking of the offense, Al's article discusses the switch to the read option and the impact of Thomas Sirks's injury. Coach Cutcliffe states he can't play cautious. My interpretation of his comments (and I admit upfront I'm reading between the lines) is Parker Boehme will play as a true freshman. Boone will be the starter, Connette will play in the Wildcat and Boehme will see action in situational relief of Boone.

Anyway, if you have a spare $6 in your pocket, the ACC Sports Journal Summer Edition is worth it.

Did you or someone else also hear Cut speak recently when he said he expected Sirk back for a good part of the season?

[Bob Green]

Did you or someone else also hear Cut speak recently when he said he expected Sirk back for a good part of the season?

I didn't hear Cut speak, but I've read it several different places. Sirk coming back in 2013 would be a remarkable recovery. Achilles tendon injuries are brutal.

[devildeac]

Did you or someone else also hear Cut speak recently when he said he expected Sirk back for a good part of the season?

I didn't hear Cut speak, but I've read it several different places. Sirk coming back in 2013 would be a remarkable recovery. Achilles tendon injuries are brutal.

I agree, Bob. Laettner came back from one but, IIRC, he was never the same quality player he was before the injury.