Sources: Duke QB Leonard to be game-time call

Pete Thamel, ESPNOct 21, 2023, 08:30 AM ET Duke quarterback Riley Leonard is a”real game-time”choice for Saturday’s game at No. 4 Florida State, sources informed ESPN, although a go back to the field from his high ankle sprain remains unlikely.Leonard is expected to dress for warmups and go through pregame drills for No. 16 Duke, and that’s when a final decision will be made on his status. He is 3 weeks out of the high ankle injury that he suffered versus Notre Dame on Sept. 30, and sources said Leonard increased his involvement in practice this week.Editor’s Picks He has remained minimal in practice, however, as the chances of a return in the near future increase.” He’s been rehabbing like a beast, “a source stated.”He’s doing everything he can to return.

“If Leonard doesn’t play, sources anticipate Henry Belin IV to get his second start for heaven Devils. Belin started his very first game in Duke’s 24-3 win over NC State, finishing 4 of 12 passes for 107 lawns with 2 goals and one interception.Leonard has actually emerged as among the leading quarterbacks in the ACC and the linchpin of Duke’s historical season, as the last time the Blue Devils were ranked No. 16 was 1994. Leonard’s ankle injury looms big in part because an essential element of his capability is running the ball. He is Duke’s 2nd leading rush with 345

yards and he has 4 hurrying touchdowns. One of the nation’s top dual-threat quarterbacks, Leonard has actually completed 62.7% of his passes this year and has 912 passing yards and three passing touchdowns.Belin is a redshirt freshman who will be appearing in his fourth game this season and entered the year with 21 snaps.