Next Up For Duke Football - Army

These teams met last year, Duke walked away with a 44-3 victory.

Amy has recorded 6 interceptions in four games, and has allowed an average of 16 points per game. Jones will have to be careful with the ball, and Duke will have to capitalize on every scoring opportunity it gets.

The weather is likely to be stormy on Saturday, thanks to Hurricane Matthew wreaking havoc farther down the coast. There’s a 90 percent chance of precipitation. This will affect both Army’s triple-option attack and Duke’s pass offense – both teams may struggle holding on to the ball.

Army is 3-1 on the season, with wins over Temple, Rice, UTEP, and a close loss to Buffalo. Duke has historically played well against the option – some of that credit can go to Jim Knowles’ schemes.

Jela Duncan is listed as probable, and Cutcliffe has stated he’ll play. His power run game should be a huge asset should the game turn wet and muddy. Tinashe Bere and DeVon Edwards are out for the season and will be missed on the defensive end.

Conclusion:

If Duke manages to stop the option, as it has in the past against Georgia Tech and Army, the weather conditions should play to its advantage. Duke will be able to run the ball better than it could against Virginia, and it’s incredibly unlikely that Jones will throw nearly as many picks as last time. The biggest point of concern is whether or not AJ Reed will make his kicks. It will be crucial in what is likely to be a tight game.

• Saturday Changes to Duke Football Pregame Activities
• Military discipline required for Duke football against Army Saturday given turnover woes, stormy forecast
• Duke vs. Army: What to Watch For
• Duke's Notebook: Preparing for Army's Triple Option
• Duke strategy: Eyes straight ahead
• Army looks to bounce back against Duke
• Duke emphasizes ball security in visit from Army