Duke basketball report card for Week 2 of ACC play

Duke basketball defensive grade for Week 2 of ACC play: B+

The Blue Devils struggled defensively in their long-awaited return against Boston College, especially in the first half. Their Achilles heel was found in their inability to contain the Eagles’ dribble-drive to the basket, allowing uncontested layups and a double-figure deficit.

They returned to the floor in the second half ready to defend their home court, holding the Eagles to shoot over 20 percent worse from the field than in the first half, resulting in a fantastic comeback win.

Duke’s matchup against Wake Forest was a different story, as the Blue Devils kept consistent and aggressive pressure on the Demon Deacons throughout the game.

This week, senior guard Jordan Goldwire continues to make his case as the ACC Defensive Player of the Year. He continues to lead the team with 2.6 steals per game after averaging three over the past two games.

Even though the Blue Devils uncharacteristically struggled on the defensive end at times this week, their efforts toward the end of the first halves and entire second halves earned them a B+ this week.