Duke Watch List

Virginia has lost three straight games to Duke, including a disappointing 55-48 setback in Durham last season. What can the Cavaliers do to snap the skid against the Blue Devils? The basic game plan is the same. Run the football, eat up the clock, and use play action on offense. Stop the run, tackle well, and win third down on defense. Throw in low numbers for penalties and turnovers and that’s been UVa’s formula in its wins.

Turnovers, in particular, have been a big deal for Virginia in its recent string of losses to Duke. In 2008’s 31-3 defeat, the Cavaliers had 4 INTs and 2 lost fumbles and the Blue Devils had just 2 INTs. In 2009’s 22-17 win by Duke, the two teams each had 1 INT. In 2010’s 55-48 Hoo loss, Virginia had 3 INTs while the Blue Devils had just one turnover (a fumble). It’s hard to win games when losing the turnover battle by such wide margins.

With those basics in mind, let’s take a look at some more specific details for this game in the Duke Watch List.

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