The Duke Blue Devils are looking to Nate Sheppard to help rally the undefeated season they have going.
The Duke Blue Devils came into the 2026 college football season ready to prove themselves once again.
Despite this program being the reigning ACC champions, the Blue Devils were falling under the radar around many analysts' predictions. But this hasn't slowed Duke down at all, with the team starting the new season 3-0.
Duke has earned wins over Tulane, Illinois, and Stanford, giving them a nice start to the year. But the Blue Devils understand that the job is far from over, and if they want to repeat as conference champions, there is work to be done.
Part of what has helped keep the Blue Devils motivated is the desire to help out running back Nate Sheppard. Sheppard is currently leading the nation in all-purpose yards with 196.7 per game, and rushing yards per game with 176.0.
Overall, Sheppard has rushed for 528 yards and five touchdowns this season for Duke. His presence on the offense has helped shape this unit, giving them a legitimate weapon to use.
The Duke running back has been electric to start the season, and the team has been trying to rally around him. Sheppard has given this team a major boost, and it's helped to ease the mind of quarterback Walker Eget during games.
Eget, who came over from San Jose State, has been given an easier time so far this season. But there will come a time when Eget has to step up to perform up to standard, and he won't want to let Sheppard down.
Through the first few games, Eget has thrown for 539 yards with four touchdowns and one interception. Shepard won't be able to do everything himself, and Eget will be the next line of offense for this Blue Devils team.
Head coach Manny Diaz wanted to establish a strong running game again this season, bringing physicality to the field each game. So far, his guys have done just that and it has allowed them to get off to a strong start.
Diaz came into this season with a lot to prove as well, and he hasn't backed down from the challenge in front of him. The head coach has his players fired up each week, ready to dominate anyone across from them.
Next up for the Blue Devils will be a home game against William & Mary, with Duke looking to move to 4-0 on the season. Kickoff between these two teams is scheduled for 12:30 p.m. PT/3:30 p.m. ET from Wallace Wade Stadium in Durham.
