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Duke football defense focuses on improvement ahead of 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 5:43 PM

Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Duke football defense focuses on improvement ahead of 2026 season
Summary

Duke football's defense aims to rebound from a disappointing 2025 season as they prepare for their opener on September 5 against Tulane. Coach Manny Diaz emphasizes the need for urgency and teamwork after the team's drop from 2024's seventh to 14th in ACC scoring defense. The off-season brought significant changes, including five new transfers, leading to a youthful but ambitious defensive lineup. Players like Preston Watson express a rejuvenated spirit and commitment to practice, while concerns persist about last season's secondary struggles.

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Status Watch
  • •Duke opens the season against Tulane on September 5.
  • •Manny Diaz stresses urgency for the 2026 defense.
  • •The team dropped from 7th in scoring defense in 2024 to 14th in 2025.
  • •Five transfers have joined the defense, aiming for a significant impact.
  • •Players report a renewed sense of teamwork and competition in practices.
Latest Updates
  • 5:43 PMYahoo Sports — Can Duke football's defense return to its 2024 form?
What they're saying
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Manny Diaz is preaching urgency as Duke football's defense looks to put 2025 behind it and return to its 2024 form.

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