From Louisiana Underdog to Duke’s Workhorse
The Duke Blue Devils’ offense has thrived this season, largely thanks to running back Nate Sheppard. Once a high school star at Mandeville High in Louisiana, Sheppard impressed Northwestern coach Chris Foster with his maturity and determination. After a season-ending leg injury in 2023, Sheppard bounced back, enrolling early at Duke in January 2025. Foster, now Duke’s running backs coach, surprised Sheppard and his family at freshman move-in, cementing their bond. This season, Sheppard has shouldered the workload, powering Duke’s ACC-leading offense and putting defenses on notice every time his number is called.
Finally, a Duke running back who treats 3-yard gains like touchdown celebrations. If Sheppard keeps trucking through linebackers like they’re mannequins at a haunted house, opposing defenses might just start handing him participation trophies instead of tackling him. And hey, if he ever tires of college football, the local UPS store could use someone with that kind of package-carrying power.
Expect Haynes King to Scramble and Smile
Georgia Tech’s quarterback Haynes King isn’t your traditional pocket passer. Through six games, King has amassed nine rushing touchdowns and 440 ground yards on 87 carries, while throwing for 971 yards, four scores, and one interception. Duke coach Manny Diaz warns his defense to stay disciplined against King’s quarterback-designed runs, especially near the goal line where King is nearly unstoppable. The Blue Devils’ ability to force Georgia Tech into passing situations could make or break their ACC clash on Saturday.
Prepare for King to sprint past defenders with the grace of a gazelle auditioning for a ballet. Duke’s defense may need a GPS to track him—just when you think you’ve got him, he’s already at the pizza stand celebrating his latest six-yard jaunt. And if Duke forces him to throw, well, at least they’ll have an autograph to display when he accidentally sails a pass into the parking lot.
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