As we were finishing our last post, word broke that Ryan Smith committed to Duke. Talk about Bang Bang Duke Gang! While Smith isn’t the highest rated prospect, he’s a three-star LB who was named defensive player of the year for his region. That’s always impressive, no matter what level of competition.
What can Smith do? A little bit of everything. His junior year highlights show how capable he is. He can run, catch and block kicks on special teams. Given how important special teams will be for Duke next year as the Blue Devils break in a new starter, a player like him could be important.
How did Duke get him? Well, the Blue Devils got him over competition from Air Force, Akron and three Ivy League schools. It may not be like taking a guy from the SEC, but with a small recruiting class and the need to replace Koby Quansah, you have to take guys who show an ability to make plays. Also, given what success Duke has had with folks from Georgia making plays on special teams and defense (DeVon. Edwards.), it’s always good when the Blue Devils pick up a player from the Peach State.
Congrats to Ryan Smith and to Duke!
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