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Duke Opens 2026 vs Tulane, Ranked 10th

8/12/2026

35 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Duke opens the 2026 season on Sept. 5 versus Tulane.
ACC media poll ranks Duke 10th of 17 while ESPN forecasts five wins in 12 games.
Coach Manny Diaz (third year) holds a quarterback battle between transfer Walker Eget and redshirt freshman Dan Mahan.
Defensive coordinator Jonathan Patke fills Aaron Hall and Vincent Anthony Jr.’s losses with sophomores Bryce Davis and Owen Wafle competing inside.

History

Historical Context

In 1990 the ACC grew to nine schools by adding Florida State, a move mirrored by the SEC’s twelve-team expansion that sparked lucrative TV deals. Inspired by that model, ACC presidents voted in May 2003 and invited Miami and Virginia Tech, which joined on July 1 2004, followed by Boston College in 2005, bringing the league to the 12 members needed for a football championship game.

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Story summary

Duke opens the 2026 season on Sept. 5 versus Tulane.
ACC media poll ranks Duke 10th of 17 while ESPN forecasts five wins in 12 games.
Coach Manny Diaz (third year) holds a quarterback battle between transfer Walker Eget and redshirt freshman Dan Mahan.
Defensive coordinator Jonathan Patke fills Aaron Hall and Vincent Anthony Jr.’s losses with sophomores Bryce Davis and Owen Wafle competing inside.

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