Sunday, August 11, 2002 Updated: August 13, 10:16 AM ET
Duke having a devil of a time winning
By Gregg Doyel Special to ESPN.com
Duke Blue Devils 2001 record: 0-11 (0-8) Coach: Carl Franks (Fourth season, 3-30) Starters returning: 5 offense, 7 defense, 2 kickers Outlook: Duke might be the only team in the country with just two seniors ... oops, make that one. Starting quarterback D. Bryant was ruled academically ineligible this summer, leaving linebacker Jamyon Small as the only senior on roster. That certainly doesn't bode well for a program that has lost its last 23 games.
The Blue Devils have talent in certain positions -- like tailback (Chris Douglas), left tackle (Drew Strojny), defensive end (Jim Scharrer) and linebacker (Ryan Fowler). But do they have enough depth to end one of the longest losing streaks in Division I-A history? Or to improve on a defense that allowed an ACC-record 491 points last season?
Key game: The most winnable game on the Duke schedule looks to be its Sept. 28 trip to Navy, where the Midshipmen have a new coach, a new system and a new quarterback. Navy struggled against the run last season, which is good news for the Blue Devils, whose best player is their tailback, Douglas.
Keep an eye on: Fowler has been moved to inside linebacker, making him the focal point of the Blue Devils' 4-3 defensive scheme. After averaging more than 100 tackles in his first two seasons, Fowler could have a breakout, All-ACC-type campaign from his new slot.
It's a good year if. . .: Honestly? If the Blue Devils win a game. Duke hasn't won since 1999, and another 0-11 season would be devastating to the program's future, not to mention Franks' job security.
Gregg Doyel covers the ACC for the Charlotte Observer.
Duke Blue Devils