Nate Sheppard was unstoppable in Duke's opener.

Duke football secured yet another season-opening win with a 17-3 victory against Tulane. The Blue Zone breaks down the victory with three key takeaways, three notable stats and a look ahead.

It's no secret that Duke football is going to continue to run the ball in 2026. That same philosophy will carry into 2026. "Our first goal is to pound the rock," tight end Jeremiah Hasley said in an Aug. 11 media availability. "I think we have a great ...

Duke football hasn't lost an opener since the final season of the David Cutcliffe era.

For the fifth year in a row, Duke proved that it knows how to open a season, snagging a 17-3 victory over Tulane behind a monstrous effort by running back Nate Sheppard.

Running back Nate Sheppard ran for more than 200 yards and two touchdowns as Duke held off the Green Wave to open the season 1-0. Running back Nate Sheppard ran for more than 200 yards and two touchdowns as Duke held off the Green Wave to open the season 1-0.

Duke football improved to 3-0 in season openers under Manny Diaz on Saturday night.