Duke running back Nate Sheppard earns Doak Walker weekly honors

Duke running back Nate Sheppard received Doak Walker Running Back of the Week recognition following his performance in the Blue Devils' season opener against Tulane. Sheppard recorded 227 rushing yards on 32 carries with two touchdowns, marking the fifth-most rushing yards in a single game in program history. The performance earned him ACC Running Back of the Week honors despite being omitted from the award's preseason watch list. The Louisiana native has now scored at least one touchdown in four consecutive games dating back to last season. Following the victory over Tulane, Duke prepares for a second-week matchup in Illinois. The coaching staff expects the game to present a more difficult challenge for the offense as the team looks to build on its early season start.

• 5:17 PMYahoo Sports — Duke’s Nate Sheppard named Doak Walker Running Back of the Week