Duke football coach Manny Diaz says Blue Devils are more experienced in the…

Duke football coach Manny Diaz says Blue Devils are more experienced in the…

 

Duke football head coach Manny Diaz recently emphasized the increased experience within the Blue Devils’ roster, attributing it to the team’s recent success and the continuity of key staff members. Diaz, who took over as head coach in 2024 after Mike Elko’s departure to Texas A&M, has overseen a program that has built upon its previous successes.

 

In a recent interview, Diaz noted, “The best thing we have at Duke is our people,” highlighting the importance of retaining the core group of players and staff. He specifically praised Director of Football Sports Performance David Feeley, stating that Feeley has been instrumental in the program’s success over the past few years. Diaz’s decision to maintain continuity with key personnel has contributed to a seamless transition and sustained performance on the field.

 

Under Diaz’s leadership, the Blue Devils have demonstrated resilience and adaptability. The team has shown an ability to handle adversity, often bouncing back from challenging situations to secure victories. This mental toughness has been a hallmark of Diaz’s coaching philosophy and has been evident in the team’s performances throughout the season.

 

The Blue Devils’ defense, a cornerstone of Diaz’s coaching strategy, has been particularly impressive. In their season opener against Elon, Duke’s defense recorded eight sacks and 16 tackles for loss, showcasing the aggressive and relentless style that Diaz emphasizes. This defensive prowess has been a key factor in the team’s success and reflects the effectiveness of Diaz’s defensive schemes.

 

Diaz’s approach to building a successful program at Duke involves leveraging the university’s academic reputation to retain talent. He believes that Duke’s commitment to academic excellence provides a unique advantage in the current landscape of college football, where player retention can be challenging. By offering student-athletes the opportunity to develop both academically and athletically, Diaz aims to build a sustainable and competitive program.

 

As the season progresses, Coach Manny Diaz remains focused on continuing to develop the Blue Devils’ experience and maintaining the program’s upward trajectory. With a strong foundation and a clear vision, Duke football is poised for continued success under Diaz’s leadership.