The Duke Blue Devils capped the previous campaign with both the Atlantic Coast Conference title and a bowl victory, a double achievement that set high expectations for the 2026 slate.
A Season of Transition
However, the team will have to adjust without Darian Mensah, who announced his transfer to the University of Miami, leaving a void at the quarterback position that could reshape the offense.
Analyst Phil Steele has projected Duke to finish 11th out of the conference’s 14 teams, while his model forecasts Miami as the clear front‑runner to dominate the league.
Coach Manny Diaz, who guided the squad to the recent triumphs, says he is using the criticism as fuel, determined to prove the doubters wrong and to build on the momentum of last season.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming schedule will test the team’s resilience, especially as they open against non‑conference opponents before diving into ACC play, where the pressure will mount quickly.