Introductory press conferences aren't normally significant. They’re mostly full of coachspeak, talks of building culture and vague platitudes about performance. But Manny Diaz’s was different. Since being hired, Duke’s new coach has preached the importance of a defense that “gets [opponents] to lose football games.”
That goal has already been achieved. Right now, Diaz’s crew has been elite on the defensive side of the ball, ranking second in FBS in tackles for losses. In three games, the Blue Devils’ defense has only allowed 44 points. In 48 attempts, they’ve only allowed 12 third-down conversions. Elon, Northwestern and UConn aren’t exactly high-flying offensive powerhouses, but Duke’s defense undoubtedly got them to lose games.
Stout defense, check.
Togetherness and teamwork was also key in Diaz’s messaging, and he quoted a player saying that “we have the best locker room in the world." These cliches are often bandied about in the college football world. However, when Diaz opens his address by praising David Feeley, the Blue Devils' strength and conditioning coach, and a player says eight months later that “the church of Feeley changed my life,” there’s a clear culture being built.
Togetherness, teamwork and David Feeley, check.
Diaz talked about how the program is not meant to be a one-man show. Inevitably, faces like his, quarterback Maalik Murphy’s or star wide receiver Jordan Moore’s will catch much of the attention for how the coaching staff and offense perform. However, they aren’t the only people involved. Offensive coordinator Jonathan Brewer’s game scripts have played to Murphy’s strengths and showcased the talents of offensive players all around. There have also been unexpected contributors from everywhere on the roster — from new running back Star Thomas to Que’Sean Brown, the freshman who wasn’t projected to be anything more than a punt returner on Ourlads.com’s preseason depth chart.
Contributions from up and down the roster, check.
Resilience was also front and center in Diaz’s message: “You want to root for a team, that, when the best is required, they step up — competitive excellence. And that's what's gonna define us.”
As most every team does throughout the course of a season, Duke found itself in a tricky situation against the Huskies last week. Up 17-0, the heavily favored Blue Devils let UConn get back into the game and eventually take a 21-17 lead. This would have simply been too much for some teams’ mental fortitude, but Duke got to work, scored two touchdowns and escaped with the win.
Resilience, check.
After following Diaz's checklist, Duke football sits undefeated. Only heavy underdog Middle Tennessee State stands between the team and a 4-0 start. The Blue Devils have accomplished many of Diaz’s initial goals already, and they have the victories to show for it.
The wins may stop coming as the schedule becomes harder, but if Duke continues to play the style their leader espoused on his first day with the program, this season will be a success.
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