Duke's Manny Diaz Linked to Elite Big Ten HC Job After Beating Virginia

Can the Duke Blue Devils just enjoy nice things?

The Blue Devils snapped a two-game losing streak on Friday night, coming back in the second half to beat Virginia 19-16 on the road despite quarterback Walker Eget having to miss some of the first half due to an apparent hand injury. 

He rallied the offense in the second half, though running back Nate Sheppard wound up throwing the game-winning touchdown pass in the fourth quarter on a trick play.

Duke improved to 5-2 on the season and 2-2 in ACC play. Given the adversity the program faced after losing Darian Mensah and Cooper Barkate late in the transfer portal, many around college football wondered if head coach Manny Diaz could get the program to a bowl game despite the Blue Devils winning the ACC championship last season.

Not long after Duke's win, Dan Wolken of Yahoo Sports suggested Diaz could be a top candidate for the USC job if the Trojans decide to part ways with Lincoln Riley after the season. No. 16 USC is 6-1 overall and 3-1 in Big Ten play, with its only loss coming to Oregon on Sept. 26. 

Riley is facing pressure to make his first-ever College Football Playoff appearance with the Trojans. Should they fail to make the CFP, USC could be looking for a new head coach.

Duke was a springboard for Mike Elko, who helped turn around the program before leaving for the SEC at Texas A&M.

Diaz has continued that success, going 9-4 in his first season in 2024 and 9-5 in 2025. His 23-11 record and 13-7 record in the ACC, along with a conference title, have made him a popular name in the early coaching carousel.

Duke is Diaz's second stint as a head coach at the college level. He went 21-15 during his three years at Miami. A chance to coach at an elite Big Ten program would have to be enticing for Diaz, who signed a new deal with Duke during the offseason.

Diaz has made a lot with the little resources Duke gives its football team compared to its ACC peers. As evidenced by the 2026 recruiting class, USC is more than willing to give its head coach resources to build a strong roster. 

Whether or not the USC job becomes open, Duke's success this season will mean Diaz’s name will be in headlines for several coaching jobs later this season.