Duke Blue Devils Football: Breaking Down the Offense in 2011

After an incredibly disappointing 3-9 season in 2010, the Duke Blue Devils look to finally turn the corner and get this program bowl eligible.

Here I will go through position by position and grade each unit of the offense.

From the quarterback to the offensive lineman, each unit is equally important in assuring a successful 2011 campaign.

Overall Offense: B

Blue Devils football fans should be excited for the 2011 season.

I don’t want to get fans overly excited, but this may be Duke’s best offensive unit in well over a decade.

Assuming all players stay healthy, especially one very important signal caller, this team might go bowling this winter.

Quarterback: B+

Simply put, this team is a one-man show.

Duke’s entire season rides behind the right arm of phenomenal quarterback Sean Renfree.

With his scrambling abilities and great vision downfield, Renfree has fans ready for September 3.

If I had to pick a player Renfree reminds me of, the one who first comes to mind is Taylor Martinez of Nebraska.

(Note: Sophomore quarterback Brandon Connette is the back up, but having to go to him would be devastating.)

Running Backs: B

Desmond Scott returns to lead the Blue Devils’ running attack.

Coming off a 530-yard season in 2010, Scott may very well pass the 1,000-yard mark in 2011 if things go as planned.

Back up Josh Snead will also carry a bigger load in 2011, seeing the field when Scott comes out.

Wide Receivers and Tight Ends: B

Here’s Duke’s second best position.

Standout receiver Conner Vernon is a great possession receiver with deceptive speed.

Behind him is another quality receiver in Donovan Varner.

These two, alongside senior tight end Cooper Helfet, give Renfree plenty of options to go to.

Offensive Line: C+

The Blue Devils only have one senior on the offensive line, but return four starters from a depleted unit in 2010.

Duke is lacking in skill upfront, and depth is a major issue.

If the Blue Devils bite the injury bug, the season could spiral out of control like years past.