Sport: College Sports Category: Scores & Results

Manny Diaz announces open competition in Duke secondary ahead of season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 9, 2026, 6:20 PM

Last updated Aug 9, 2026

Manny Diaz announces open competition in Duke secondary ahead of season

Summary

Duke head coach Manny Diaz confirmed that every position in the Blue Devils' secondary is available for competition this season. Last year, Duke's defense struggled, allowing an average of 276.8 passing yards per game. Diaz emphasized that all players must earn their spots, with potential contributions from transfer signees including Che Ojarikre, Dylan Flowers, and Kyon Loud. He noted that there will be some learning curves during the upcoming three weeks of practice, leading to the team's first game against Tulane.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Every position in Duke's secondary is open for competition this season.
•Duke allowed 276.8 passing yards per game last season, ranking 134th in FBS.
•Transfers Che Ojarikre, Dylan Flowers, and Kyon Loud join the cornerback battle.
•DaShawn Stone and Andrew Pellicciotta return at safety, facing competition from Patrick Smith-Young.
•Diaz anticipates growth and urgency from players leading up to the Tulane game.

Latest Updates