VIEW FROM THE PRESS BOX: Duke rolling over Bears
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Baylor’s momentum from its 2-0 start to the season fell flat in the first half against Duke.
The Blue Devils had a monopoly on big plays through the first 30 minutes, including Deon Jackson’s 31-yard touchdown run and quarterback Quentin Harris’s scoring passes of 28 yards to T.J. Rahming and 66 yards to Johnathan Lloyd.
Duke sliced through the Baylor defense and out-gained Baylor 262-148 in total yards on the way to the Blue Devils’ 23-0 lead at halftime here at McLane Stadium.
Baylor has had trouble dealing with its first Power 5 opponent this season, particularly in the trenches. But the Bears RBs and WRs have added to the team’s troubles by not being able to hold on to the football.
Baylor running back John Lovett fumbled in his own territory, leading to Duke’s first touchdown. Then WR Jalen Hurd dropped two passes on Baylor’s ensuing possession, keeping the Bears from answering and/or getting momentum back on their side.
With Duke leading 23-0 late in the first half, Baylor RB Trestan Ebner and WR Pooh Stricklin dropped passes on consecutive plays, causing boos to fly from the McLane Stadium stands.
So the big question going into the second half is will Baylor make a game of this or suffer a blowout?