The Duke football wide receivers are getting their motivation from a key player on the offense as they are off to a 3-0 start.
This week, the Blue Devils will host their final non-conference game of the season as William & Mary come to town.
A big reason for Duke's success has been stellar defense as well as an offense that can move the ball down the field. That offense is led by quarterback Walker Eget who has played a lot better in the previous two games. But overall, running back Nate Sheppard is the best player on that offense.
It's safe to say that the offense is run through Sheppard, as he currently leads the NFL in rushing with 528 yards. He also has five touchdowns this year. But Sheppard's impact appears to be spreading to his teammates as well.
Wide receiver Jonah Burton transferred from Idaho State and it didn't take long for Sheppard to have an impression on him or other receivers.
Burton told the media that the wide receiver room feeds off the run game. They enjoy getting into their blocks and creating some run room for Sheppard. He also mentioned that they take pride in knowing they are giving their all for the offensive line and running backs, because it's reciprocated.
While Sheppard has been great on his own, the blocking has been excellent as well. It truly takes a team effort to make it happen on the ground and that can open up things on the offense for other areas as well.
Nate Sheppard can help the pass game too
Sheppard has also been a reliable receiver out of the backfield for quarterback Walker Eget so far this season. With Eget struggling early, he has turned it around the past few games helping lead the Blue Devils to wins over Illinois and Stanford with strong performances.
There have been some struggles in terms of production from the receivers as tight end Jeremiah Hasley leads them with 10 receptions for 177 yards. Burton has eight receptions for 124 yards and a touchdown. It's not eye-opening but the addition of Sheppard catching passes has helped Eget and the offense.
Manny Diaz is comfortable with the offense running through Sheppard for now. But at some point, the rest of the unit will have to step up.
