Last year's version of Duke football was nothing short of a surprise. Mike Elko came in as a first year head coach and helped restructure a program into a winner essentially using the same pieces that were on the chess board the previous year. How is that possible? Special guest, Conor O'Neill, the publisher of Devils Illustrated provides an in-depth preview of the Blue Devils including his thoughts on where they may be headed.

Sure, when you think of Duke it's certainly basketball and in the past it may have been one or two other sports as well, but, football? It's been a hit and miss proposition. David Cutcliffe surprised many an observer with a run to the top of the ACC but could never quite maintain the momentum.

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What's in store for Duke football fans this year? Will it be the 9-4 record from last year? Maybe not but it could very well be a better overall team than last. However, a restructured conference and tough schedule to boot will be big hurdles for Elko this season. Closer games? Upsets?

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O'Neill takes us through the defense and the key to choking off opposing offenses. Then what are the keys to success on offense? It won't be a one-man show as multiple weapons step forward. From receivers to running backs to quarterback this team has the potential to punch opponents in the kisser.

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Duke football may be coming into to it's own under Elko as transfers and a bigger footprint for recruiting are immediately paying off. The devil is in the details and we'll see how fine a point this coaching staff puts on the final picture.

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