From staff reports
Quarterback Joe Pickens, a transfer from Ohio State, threw for 113 yards on Saturday as Duke went through its second scrimmage of spring practice. The 75-minute early morning scrimmage featured a number of different looks as the Blue Devils work on learning the offensive system of new coordinator Buddy Geis.
"Our offensive line showed great improvement in protecting the passer," said Duke head coach Barry Wilson. "Spence Fischer and Joe Pickens did some very positive things at quarterback. I think that Spence is ahead of the game in terms of the overall offensive set and running things. Joe did some really nice things, and took some steps forward today. Everything is brand new to him, and he had been out a long time."
Pickens transferred from Ohio State last season and sat out the year under NCAA rules. The junior from Cleveland was regarded as one of the top prep quarterbacks in the nation upon signing with Ohio State. Fischer played in nine games last fall, throwing for 1,505 yards and eight touchdowns.
"Our defense is ahead of the offense at this stage, but that is to be expected with the new system being put in place. Scott Berdan has done an excellent job at linebacker in terms of being a consistent leader for us," Wilson said.
Rising sophomore Ray Farmer caught 16 passes for 197 yards at tight end last fall. Farmer moved to defense this spring, splitting time on the football practice field with his outfield duties for the 19th-ranked baseball team.
"Ray Farmer has really come along at free safety," Wilson said. "He is a quality athlete and it is not out of the realm to see him on offense and defense next fall. We moved him to the secondary, and he has been committed and conscientious about working hard on football while playing baseball this spring," Wilson said.
Duke will conclude spring practice in two weeks.
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