The Atlantic Coast Conference recognized seven Duke Football players for their performances on the field this season, including two First Team selections.
The ACC recently announced their annual football honors for all-conference players this season. The All-ACC teams are voted on by head coaches and select media members. This year, seven Blue Devils received conference accolades led by All-ACC First Team selections Mark Gilbert and Joe Giles-Harris.
Sophomore CB Mark Gilbert was named the top cornerback in the conference this season receiving 97 votes. He played a huge role for the Blue Devils’ defensive secondary, totaling 31 tackles, six interceptions, and 13 passes defended. His oustanding two-interception performance against Wake Forest in the final game helped Duke rally to defeat the Demon Deacons and earn a trip to the postseason this year.
Redshirt sophomore linebacker Joe Giles-Harris was also an All-ACC First Team selection for the Blue Devils. He was the team’s leading tackler with 117 tackles and 15 tackles for loss, also adding 4.5 sacks and an interception. He was also great in helping overcome late injuries to Ben Humphreys and Jeremy McDuffie on the defensive side of the ball. Giles-Harris earned All-ACC Honorable Mention last season, but led Duke in all-conference team votes this year receiving 114.
Canes Warning
On the All-ACC second team, redshirt center Austin Davis was recognized for his contributions this season. The team captain played a major role on offense, helping protect quarterback Daniel Jones and block for running backs Shaun Wilson and Brittain Brown.
Two Blue Devils were added to the All-ACC Third Team Defense this season. Senior defensive tackle Mike Ramsay led Duke in sacks with 5.5. The defensive lineman also recorded 42 total tackles and 9.5 tackles for loss.
He was joined by junior Jeremy McDuffie. McDuffie made the switch from cornerback to safety this offseason. He is one of the top athletes in the country, also performing at an All-ACC level for Duke Track & Field, and was one of the most improved players in the conference this season. He compiled 58 tackles, three interceptions, and nine pass breakups before suffering a season-ending knee injury against Georgia Tech.
Finally, Duke Football’s leading wide receiver and running back received All-ACC honorable mentions this season. T.J. Rahming led the team with 61 catches for 773 yards. Meanwhile, Shaun Wilson did it all for Duke compiling 743 rushing yards, 241 receiving yards, 590 kick return yards, and six total touchdowns.
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Duke Football finished the 2017 regular season with a 6-6 record thanks to key contributions from these players. After a dominant performance against Georgia Tech and a thrilling come from behind win over Wake Forest, the Duke Blue Devils will be able to compete in a bowl game this postseason.