Jeremy Brevard-USA Today Sports
The Duke Blue Devils received great news today when they learned that four star quarterback Nicodem Pierre of Miami, Florida had joined the Duke class of 2014.
The 6-foot-2 203 pound quarterback is a huge commitment for a school looking to build off of a tremendous 2012 season. Head coach David Cutcliffe is highly-regarded as a quarterback coach and has landed a tremendous weapon in Pierre. Duke is transitioning away from a pass happy offense into one based on zone-read schemes that fit Pierre’s skill set perfectly.
Although he is ranked as a dual-threat quarterback, Pierre is a developed passer who runs when the time calls for it. He has a smooth release and can drive the ball on intermediate throws. His deep throws are a little inconsistent, but he shows raw throwing abilities that are rare. His accuracy will improve as he works on his footwork which can get sloppy at times.
Pierre has shown nice pocket presence and escapability when the rush converges, and he certainly has the athleticism to get out and make plays on the move. Although he might not be a primary ball carrier for the Blue Devils, he will be a threat in the zone-read schemes that Cutcliffe would like to incorporate in Durham.
He’s a bit lanky at this point and will benefit from adding some weight to his frame. He will likely have the opportunity to redshirt as a freshman, giving him time to get bigger physically and learn the Duke offense.
Pierre chose the Devils over offers from Nebraska, Mississippi State and Louisville.
B.L. is an ACC Football writer for Rant Sports and can be followed on Twitter @coachlip.
