Jackets beat Duke 27-0

Some initial thoughts regarding GT's 27-0 victory over Duke.

-After a slow start, the Jackets were able to methodically wear down a game Duke defense and get their first shutout since 2006 and 2nd since 2000. It was the passing of Jaybo Shaw and the receiving of Daymarius Thomas that really made the difference in this game. Thomas was, at times, wide open because Duke was so intent on stopping the flexbone. Teams will quickly realize that Paul Johnson's offense is not as "one dimensional" as its made out to be.

-ESPN showed a stat during the game that talked about Jaybo Shaw and the fact he is one of 4 true freshmen in the country that start at QB. Love Jaybo, but its clear that Nesbitt needs to get healed up ASAP. Jaybo just doesn't have the physical tools or experience right now to make this offense work perfectly and it looked like Paul had scaled down the offense knowing he had no backup behind Shaw.

-This defense is NASTY and getting better each week. We all knew the front 4 would be wicked but yesterday it was the hard hitting secondary and linebackers that stood out. This defense is just flat out tough both mentally and physically. They play with a confidence and swagger and enthusiasm that matches any other team I've seen in college football this year. I wonder if it has to do with practicing against a physical smashmouth offense nearly everyday. Run the ball and stop the run-do those and you will win a bunch of games. Also it certainly helps that the Jackets are finally getting healthy.

-Gardner Webb will be one last chance to fine tune things before a huge game October 11th at Clemson.