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The Duke Blue Devils listed start running back Nate Sheppard as questionable for their big clash against rivals North Carolina earlier this week. And it seems Duke fans will have to wait until just before the game to know his true status for the Victory Bell.
Per Peter Nakos of On3, Sheppard will be a “true game-time decision” to take on UNC as he deals with an undisclosed injury.
Missing Sheppard would be a huge blow to the Blue Devils. The sophomore running back is currently the leading rusher in the nation in terms of yards per game, averaging 148.6. He is also tied for fourth in the nation with 11 total touchdowns (eight rushing, three receiving).
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Sheppard is coming off another monster performance last time out against Georgia Tech. He rushed for 99 yards with two touchdowns and added 91 yards on seven receptions. Unfortunately, his 190 yards of total offense weren’t enough as the Blue Devils fell 28-25 to the Yellow Jackets, their first loss of the season. Duke rallied late and had a chance to send the game to overtime, but kicker Gavin Strange missed a potential game-tying field goal.
If Sheppard is not able to go, CJ Campbell Jr. will be tasked to carry the load in the Blue Devils’ backfield. The senior running back had a season-high 46 yards on six carries against Georgia Tech. On the season, he has 185 rushing yards but has yet to score a touchdown.
Duke will be looking to make it three straight wins against North Carolina in the Victory Bell. However, Bill Belichick’s Tar Heels will have momentum on their side as they’re coming off a 21-17 win over No. 25 Pittsburgh, their first win over a ranked opponent under Belichick.
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