February 13, 2007
I know there is jubilation on many college campuses across America. That's right, there is an anti-Duke sentiment celebrating as the Blue Devils have lost four straight games. That is the first time that has happened since 1996, which is also the last time the Blue Devils lost in the first round of the NCAA.
When I look at this year's Duke team, am I shocked with the recent struggles? Absolutely not. I have been more surprised with the success they have had, especially early in the season. Remember that in non-league play, Duke has wins over Air Force, Georgetown, Indiana, Gonzaga, Davidson and Holy Cross. There are also league wins over Boston College and Clemson. For all of those who feel they are in major trouble and falling short of an NCAA berth, forget about it! The RPI and VBDI are too high!
This is a team the lacks offensive firepower. The Blue Devils are last in the ACC in scoring, averaging just 69.2 ppg. You have to go back 25 years to find a Duke team that scored fewer points per game for an entire season. This is rare for the Blue Devils, a club that usually has an explosive attack.
The last time Duke did not have an All-ACC first-team member was also 1996, when Chris Collins was a second-team selection. Is this a coincidence?
Josh McRoberts is a solid all-around player, but unless he makes a late surge, I see him being a second-team choice too, leaving Duke shut out from the All-ACC first team in 2007. Right now I see Tyler Hansbrough and Brandan Wright of North Carolina, Jared Dudley of Boston College, Sean Salisbury of Virginia and Al Thornton of Florida State as my picks of the league honors.
Dudley has been super, Mr. Consistency for the Eagles. His versatility has been obvious as he leads the ACC in scoring (20 ppg) and rebounding (9.0 rpg).
The biggest problem for Duke has been the lack of scoring at crucial times. Prior to the loss to Maryland, it was heartbreak hotel. The Blue Devils had opportunities to close games out but fell short against North Carolina, Florida State and Virginia. Win two of those three games and there is no discussion about Duke's situation.
Talk about games going to the wire. Duke had chances in the final seconds against the Seminoles and Cavaliers. Mike Krzyzewski's club played so hard against the Tar Heels; the depth, talent and ability of North Carolina to survive an early deficit helped Roy Williams' team escape with a W! Key missed free throws hirt Duke too.
Krzyzewski has his team playing with great passion and emotion, especially defensively. My friends, the Blue Devils lead the ACC in scoring defense, holding opponents below 59 ppg. This team has trouble putting 70 points on the board. In fact, it has happened just four times over the last 11 contests. In a college game against quality opposition, it is tough to win consistently when you can't get 70.
Let me remind you, come ACC tourney time, Krzyzewski is the master in the one-game scenario. For those writing the Dukies off, thinking they are automatic L, this club will scratch and claw. There is a reason why this program has won seven of the last eight conference tourney championships. Coach K is in the Hall of Fame because he can get people to respond and play their best.
Sometimes the scoreboard is not dicated by those that play with great effort and emotion. Size, speed, quickness and talent can ultimately separate teams. Duke doesn't have to apologize to anyone and anyone that laces 'em up against the Blue Devils has to come to play. The first commandment is thou shalt always give thy best. That is what coaching is all about.
The bottom line is, Duke is still a dangerous team with time to right the ship.
Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979. Send him a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.
