Quentin Harris: We never want to let our foot off the gas pedal

Quarterback says ankle, hurt at end of Virginia Tech, is fine

Duke quarterback Quentin Harris has only been sacked once this season. Saturday’s game presents a challenge, however, since Pitt’s defense has averaged six sacks a week.

“They get a lot of sacks,” he said. “I think they have 24 so far this season. They get up the field really well, and they mix in blitzes as well. It can compromise your protection at some points. ”

Harris is comfortable facing Pitt’s pass rush from the relative safety of being behind Duke’s line.

“The offensive line has had great communication through the first third of the season so far,” he said. “They’ve had one sack allowed through four games. That’s a great stat. It’s a testament to their ability up front and just us being on the same page.”

Harris limped off the field at the end of the Virginia Tech game, when the game was out of reach. The TV broadcast said it appeared he’d rolled his ankle.

Harris doesn’t think the team has to do anything different to help protect him.

“I don’t think we need to at all,” he said. “It wasn’t my ankle, so I’m fine. We’re going to be aggressive. We’re going to continue to be aggressive. We never want to let our foot off the gas pedal against opponents.”

Harris thinks the offense hasn’t reached its ceiling yet.

“We’re operating really well, and we’re getting a lot of guys now, back in the fold,” he said. “Noah (Gray) is getting back healthy. Jake Marwede is coming back. Jake Bobo, having him back out there is great.”