ACC Football 2017: Biggest x-factor for every team

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 09: Clemson Tigers defensive end Clelin Ferrell (99) is blocked by Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Cam Robinson (74) during the 2017 College Football National Championship Game between the Clemson Tigers and Alabama Crimson Tide on January 9, 2017, at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, FL. Clemson defeated Alabama 35-31. (Photo by Mark LoMoglio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NC – JULY 14: Duke Blue Devils quarterback Daniel Jones addresses the media on day 2 of the ACC Football Kickoff at the Westin Hotel in Charlotte, NC on July 14, 2017. (Photo by William Howard/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Duke – Daniel Jones

Daniel Jones is coming off a pretty productive Freshman year for the Duke Blue Devils. Duke is obviously more known for its basketball program, but don’t forget about the football team. After a 4-8 season on the backs of a freshman signal caller, there’s no reason to think this team can’t improve.

David Cutcliffe is a quarterback guru in his own right making Jones’ development something to really monitor. Cutcliffe is probably most famous for being Peyton Mannings’ offensive coordinator at Tennessee. Despite the tough recruiting track because of high academic standards, Cutcliffe has proven to put a respectable product on the field for his program.

Jones was awfully productive and kind of got lost in the shuffle because of Duke’s lack of notoriety in football. Jones had a 46.4 completion percentage when facing pressure which trailed just Mitchell Trubisky among ACC quarterbacks. Jones is a timing and rhythm thrower and gets the ball out quickly. That led to him being sacked just 6.3 percent of his dropbacks.

Jones really is the key to the entire season for Duke. Jones fits the mantra of a duel threat quarterback who is dangerous in both the run and pass game. Jones added 16 touchdowns through the air and rushed for seven on his own. The 6-foot-5 quarterback is extremely mobile and makes him a ton of fun to watch. Because of that mobility, it’s fair to wonder whether he can improve on his 486 yards rushing from 2016.

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