Florida State Seminoles vs. Duke Blue Devils: Three Key Matchups

How can the Florida State Seminoles take care of business against the Duke Blue Devils?

The Florida State Seminoles host the No. 16 Duke Blue Devils in a potentially exciting ACC matchup. The 5-1 Blue Devils have been a surprisingly good team this season, as they burst onto the scene early in the college football season with a win over Clemson.

For the Seminoles, they're where they were expected to be halfway through the season. They had hype and high expectations, and they're undefeated so far on the year with another upcoming test against Duke.

READ MORE: Duke HC Mike Elko Says There's a 'Chance' Riley Leonard Plays Against FSU

Here are three key matchups for the Seminoles as they try and take care of the Blue Devils on Saturday.

1. Florida State Run Defense vs. Duke

Duke averages 388 total yards per game, and of those, the offense picks up 198.5 yards per game on the ground. The Blue Devils pick up over half of their total yards on the ground alone and rank first in the ACC in rushing.

To make matters worse, Riley Leonard, who is likely returning from injury, is the team's second-leading rusher, and the Blue Devils will utilize two different running backs. The Seminoles' linebackers will have to be prepared and play a clean game to avoid any huge plays on the ground.

2. Jordan Travis vs. Duke Defense

On the season, the Blue Devils average less than 300 yards allowed per game defensively. Their defense has been solid, and they gave up just three points to NC State a week ago.

Duke allows 164.7 passing yards per game. This makes Travis' performance that much more important. He'll have to be a dual-threat quarterback, which is something he's widely known for. Shaking things up and getting creative will be huge for Travis, as he can have a huge performance in both facets of the game. 

3. Florida State Receivers vs. Duke Pass Defense

As mentioned, Duke doesn't allow many yards through the air. As big of a game as Travis will have to have, it's equally as important for the receiving corps to show up.

Keon Coleman has been huge this year. Everyone is aware of Johnny Wilson's capabilities. Those two, as well as the rest of the receiving corps, will have to be on their game in this one for Florida State's offense to pull out the win.

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READ MORE: Florida State Seminoles Release Depth Chart For Sold-Out Home Contest Against Duke Blue Devils

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