Duke's Nate Sheppard Emerges as Doak Walker Award Contender

The Duke Blue Devils are off to a 2-0 start in the 2026 season with star running back Nate Sheppard leading the way on offense. 

Sheppard has been unreal in the first two games, as he rushed for 227 yards and two touchdowns on 35 carries while catching three passes for 19 yards. He had another strong performance in Week 2 against Illinois, as he had 147 yards and a touchdown on the ground, along with five receptions for 41 yards and two touchdowns.

He has established himself as one of the best running backs in the country and will be a key piece for Duke as they attempt to win a second straight ACC Title.

If he continues to play at this level throughout the season, Sheppard will have a legitimate shot at winning the Doak Walker Award, which is awarded to the best running back in the country.

Sheppard was strong in his freshman season in 2025, rushing for 1,132 yards and 11 touchdowns on 200 carries, and adding 37 receptions for 286 yards and a touchdown.

He has only improved in his second year in the league, and they will lean on him heavily after star quarterback Darian Mensah transferred to the Miami Hurricanes. 

Walker Eget took over at the position, and he has had an up-and-down start to the year, completing 28 of 47 passes (59.6 percent) for 337 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions. 

Eget was much more confident in Week 2, as he completed 15 of 21 passes for 206 yards, three touchdowns, and no interceptions. 

Sheppard's consistent production will ease the pressure off Eget and help him grow more comfortable throughout the season. The star running back has also become a better pass-catcher, giving the offensive staff more ways to use him.

Head coach Manny Diaz has built a strong program at Duke, and they are in the mix to win the ACC Title two years in a row despite losing Mensah in the transfer portal.

Sheppard will be the Blue Devils' best offensive weapon throughout the season, and they will trust him and the rushing attack to lead them to victory.