Duke football prepares to improve passing game after opening victory
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 8:15 PM
Last updated Sep 8, 2026
Duke defeated Tulane 17-3 in its season opener on September 5 in Durham, North Carolina. The Blue Devils relied heavily on their rushing attack, with Nate Sheppard recording 227 yards and two scores on 35 carries. While the defense held Tulane out of the end zone, head coach Manny Diaz identified the passing game as the primary area requiring improvement. Quarterback Walker Eget, a transfer from San Jose State, continues to adjust to the team's offense alongside a new group of receivers. Offensive coordinator Jonathan Brewer noted that the team missed several potential scoring opportunities through the air that were just out of reach. Duke aims to refine its timing and chemistry before its upcoming Week 2 matchup against Illinois.
- •Duke secured a 17-3 win over Tulane on September 5.
- •Nate Sheppard rushed for a career-high 227 yards and two touchdowns.
- •Quarterback Walker Eget is working to integrate with new receivers after recovering from ACL surgery.
- •The coaching staff plans to address passing game timing and chemistry before the game against Illinois.
- •Redshirt sophomore Dan Mahan saw his first collegiate action during the contest.
- 8:15 PMYahoo Sports — Manny Diaz confident Duke passing game will improve quickly
- 7:29 PMYahoo Sports — Duke football got the 'meat and potatoes' right. Now comes the passing game
"Duke football leaned on its run game to beat Tulane, but Manny Diaz knows the passing game must improve, and he expects a "big jump."
"Duke head coach Manny Diaz is confident that the Blue Devils' passing game will improve, but knows that it needs to come quickly.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsSep 8, 2026, 8:15 PMManny Diaz confident Duke passing game will improve quickly
Duke head coach Manny Diaz is confident that the Blue Devils' passing game will improve, but knows that it needs to come quickly.
- Yahoo SportsSep 7, 2026, 7:29 PMDuke football got the 'meat and potatoes' right. Now comes the passing game
Duke football leaned on its run game to beat Tulane, but Manny Diaz knows the passing game must improve, and he expects a "big jump."
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