Duke football reaches a bowl game in latest USA TODAY Sports bowl projections

Duke football reaches a bowl game in latest USA TODAY Sports bowl projections

After missing out on a bowl game in head coach Mike Elko's first season, Duke football is projected to reach a bowl game in the latest bowl projections from USA TODAY Sports.

The Blue Devils are projected to play in the Military Bowl against Boston College on Dec. 28 in Annapolis, Maryland.

What does this mean for Duke football?

Reaching a bowl game would be a significant step forward for Duke football, which has not been to a bowl game since 2018.

It would also be a major accomplishment for Elko, who is in his second season as Duke's head coach.

Elko led Duke to a 3-9 record in his first season, but the Blue Devils showed improvement throughout the year.

Duke returns a number of key players from last year's team, including quarterback Riley Leonard, running back Jaylen Coleman, and wide receiver Jalon Calhoun.

The Blue Devils also have a favorable schedule this year, with their only Power Five non-conference game coming against Northwestern.

If Duke can live up to the expectations of the USA TODAY Sports bowl projections, it would be a major sign of progress for the program under Elko.