The Scoop: With eight seniors, the No. 22 Blue Devils will depend on veteran leadership to make an impact in the ACC after finishing winless in conference play last season.
Key Players: Forward Emmie Le Marchand—The engine of Duke’s offense, the speedy Le Marchand led the Blue Devils in goals, points and shots in 2012.
Defender Paula Heimbach—A preseason All-ACC selection, Heimbach has anchored Duke’s back line for three years, and will need stamina this season with only three true defenders on the Blue Devils’ roster.
Midfielder Devon Gagliardi—Gagliardi has appeared in every game for the last three seasons, and, with her experience as a redshirt senior, will be a key leader on both offense and defense.
Key Games: Sept. 27 at North Carolina, Oct. 11 at Virginia, Nov. 2 at Maryland
Prediction: Fifth in the ACC, miss NCAA tournament
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