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ESPN Football Power Index projects 2026 season outlook for Duke football

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 1, 2026, 2:45 PM

Last updated Sep 1, 2026

ESPN Football Power Index projects 2026 season outlook for Duke football

Summary

Duke begins its 2026 college football season following consecutive nine-win campaigns and an ACC title. Head coach Manny Diaz, entering his third season with the program, faces a roster transition after the departure of quarterback Darian Mensah and receiver Cooper Barkate to Miami. ESPN's Football Power Index provides win probability projections for the upcoming schedule, including high-percentage matchups against William & Mary and Boston College. The Blue Devils open the season against Tulane before visiting Illinois. Other notable conference matchups include games against North Carolina, Virginia, and Miami. Despite the exit of key personnel, Diaz continues to manage a program that has recorded 18 victories over the past two seasons.

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By the Numbers

•Duke returns after consecutive nine-win seasons and an ACC championship.
•Darian Mensah and Cooper Barkate transferred to Miami during the off-season.
•The season opener features a rematch against Tulane in New Orleans.
•The Football Power Index assigns Duke a 7.2 percent win probability against Miami.

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