In the wake of a record-setting performance, it comes as little surprise that true freshman running back Shaun Wilson has been named National Freshman of the Week by Athlon Sports.
The Charlotte native broke the Duke record for rushing yards in a single game with 245 on just 12 rushes, while adding three touchdown runs in the Blue Devils' 41-3 rout of Kansas Saturday. Wilson broke the previous record of 238 yards set by former tailback Robert Baldwin in 1994.
After an eye-opening 69-yard scamper to the endzone in the first quarter, Wilson exploded in the second half, running for 176 yards and additional touchdown runs of 68 and 45 yards. Wilson's speed and knack for big plays resulted in a average of 20.4 yards per rush.
His total 245 yards on the ground are the most any player this season has gained against an FBS opponent and ranks fourth in ACC history for a freshman running back.
The national audience is also learning of Wilson's record-setting day, as he was nominated as one of four Capital One Cup Performers of the Week by ESPN. As of 4:15 p.m. Sunday, he was third in the online ballot behind Boston College quarterback Tyler Murphy and West Virginia wide receiver Kevin White.
Wilson's breakout game may remind fans of DeVon Edwards' performance last season against North Carolina State. In the 38-20 Duke win, the now-sophomore scored three touchdowns: two on back-to-back interception reutrns and one on a 100 yard kick return. Wilson and Edwards are now tied for the most points scored by a freshman in a single game in Blue Devil history with 18.
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