ATLANTA – North Carolina Central opened its 2025 campaign with authority Saturday night, dismantling Southern University 31-14 in the Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge at Center Parc Stadium. The Eagles controlled both lines of scrimmage while showcasing a balanced offensive attack that accumulated 409 total yards.

Running back Chris Mosley delivered a breakout performance, rushing for a career-high 174 yards on 17 carries with one touchdown. His explosive 49-yard scoring run with 1:40 remaining in the first half proved to be the game's turning point, giving NCCU a 17-14 advantage it never relinquished.

"My big emphasis going into this game was start fast," Mosley said after earning game MVP honors. "We know we have weapons and a great O-line. Coming in this game, that was the main focus – just being electric, giving those guys energy."

The Eagles (1-0) established their ground game early, with three different backs finding the end zone. Arthur Rodgers Jr. punched in the game's first score from one yard out, capping a methodical 13-play, 80-yard opening drive that consumed over six minutes. Aleni Mageo added the final touchdown on a six-yard run late in the third quarter.

Quarterback Walker Harris managed the game efficiently, completing 19 of 24 passes for 183 yards and one touchdown – a three-yard strike to Kyle Morgan that extended the lead to 24-14 early in the third quarter. Harris also contributed 18 yards on the ground, including an 11-yard scramble that set up the opening score.

"Walker has always done a really good job of managing the game," head coach Trey Oliver said. "He has a strong arm and can place the ball. If the DB is here, Walker can put it on the outside shoulder."

The Eagles' offensive line, returning four starters, provided consistent protection and opened running lanes throughout the contest. NCCU averaged 6.2 yards per carry while controlling time of possession 35:06 to 24:54.

Defensively, linebacker Thomas Johnson anchored the effort with seven tackles, including two for loss, while forcing and recovering a fumble. The Eagles allowed Southern (0-1) to score on explosive plays early but adjusted at halftime to shut out the Jaguars over the final 31:57 of game time.

"We had to try to keep them from getting our safety in a one-on-one situation," Oliver explained of the halftime adjustments. "We started exchanging some gaps, moving the interior D-lineman to make the O-lineman think a little bit more."

Southern struck quickly on big plays, with Cam'Ron McCoy breaking loose for 69 yards to tie the game 7-7 in the first quarter, and Trey Holly answering NCCU's field goal with an 80-yard touchdown run that briefly gave the Jaguars a 14-10 lead.

But the Eagles responded immediately. Mosley took the ensuing kickoff return to midfield, then broke through the Southern defense untouched for his career-long scoring run just nine seconds later.

The victory marked NCCU's second consecutive MEAC/SWAC Challenge triumph and improved the MEAC's all-time record in the season opener to 12-7.

NCCU will host its home opener Saturday, August 30, when New Hampshire visits O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium for a 6 p.m. kickoff on ESPN+.

Game Notes:

• NCCU outgained Southern 409-337 in total offense
• The Eagles converted 6 of 11 third-down attempts
• Kicker Kaleb Robison was perfect, connecting on a 24-yard field goal and all four extra points
• NCCU committed five penalties for 50 yards compared to Southern's seven for 43 yards
• Attendance was 16,191

CHARLOTTE – The air in North Carolina is already thick with anticipation, not just with the summer humidity, but with the palpable excitement for the upcoming high school football season.  As anticipation builds for the 2025 high school football season, the stage is set for another year of thrilling rivalries, breakout performances, and the relentless pursuit of state championships. Here at Carolina Gridiron, we're ready to ignite the excitement with our annual Preseason All-Gridiron Team, showcasing the unparalleled talent flourishing across the Old North State.

Offensive Architects: The Commanders and Playmakers

Leading our All-Gridiron offense is the electrifying Faizon Brandon from Grimsley. Entering his senior year, Brandon is widely recognized as one of the nation's premier dual-threat quarterbacks. His previous seasons have been nothing short of spectacular, consistently delivering over 2,800 passing yards and over 30 touchdowns through the air, complemented by significant rushing yardage and multiple scores on the ground. His ability to extend plays, dissect defenses with his arm, and escape pressure with his legs makes him a nightmare for opposing coordinators and the undeniable engine of his team.

In the backfield, we feature a dynamic duo built for power and versatility. Jayson Franklin of Seventy-First brings a potent combination of hard-nosed running and surprising agility. He's a player who can grind out tough yards between the tackles but also has the burst to hit the perimeter and turn a modest gain into an explosive play. Joining him is Southeast Raleigh's Christian Freeman, a rising junior who has already proven his mettle. Freeman's breakaway speed and vision allowed him to amass impressive rushing totals last season, and his ability to contribute in the passing game adds another dimension to his arsenal, making him a true all-purpose back.

The receiving corps for this All-Gridiron squad is stacked with game-changers, each bringing a unique set of skills to the field. Myers Park's Brody Keefe stands out with his elite route-running and reliable hands, consistently creating separation and hauling in contested catches. His big-play ability makes him a constant threat downfield. Providence Day’s Gordon Sellars is another top-tier receiver whose precise footwork and ability to navigate tight windows make him a dependable target in crucial situations. Rounding out this formidable trio is Tyran Evans from Hough, a receiver whose explosive bursts and knack for finding the end zone have made him a prolific scoring threat. All three wideouts possess the talent to shift momentum on any given snap.

At tight end, the choice was clear: Kendre Harrison of Reidsville. A truly unique talent, Harrison combines the size of an offensive lineman with the agility and hands of a wide receiver. As a senior, he's already demonstrated his ability to be a dominant force, consistently racking up significant receiving yards and posing a matchup nightmare for linebackers and defensive backs alike. His background as a multi-sport athlete underscores his exceptional coordination and athleticism, making him an invaluable asset in both the passing and running games.

No offense can truly shine without a dominant offensive line, and our All-Gridiron unit is built on a foundation of strength and technical prowess. Pine Forest’s Donovan Johnson brings immense power and mass to the interior, capable of moving defensive fronts with ease. South Garner’s Ekene Ogboko is a highly athletic and rugged lineman whose violent approach to the game sets the tone up front. J.B. Shabazz from East Forsyth is a towering tackle with excellent footwork, projecting dominance on the edge. Providence Day’s Leo Delaney consistently exhibits superior run-blocking technique, creating wide lanes for ball carriers. Completing this formidable quintet is Tyrell Simpson of North Brunswick, another massive tackle whose imposing frame provides a crucial barrier against pass rushers and a significant advantage in the run game.

Defensive Powerhouses: Disruptors and Tackling Machines

Our defensive line is a relentless force, designed to terrorize opposing quarterbacks and shut down rushing lanes. Weddington’s Aiden Harris is a high-motor lineman who consistently infiltrates the backfield, evidenced by his high tackle for loss and sack numbers from last season. Ebenezer Ewetade from South Garner is an explosive edge rusher who frequently found his way to the quarterback, recording a significant sack total as a sophomore. Clayton’s Keshawn Stancil is a disruptive presence inside, capable of shedding blocks and making plays in the backfield with his consistent tackle and TFL production. Rounding out this fearsome quartet is Myers Park’s Rodney Dunham, a quick and athletic pass rusher who makes opposing offensive linemen work overtime. This group's collective ability to generate pressure and control the line of scrimmage will be a nightmare for offenses.

The heart of our defense lies with our All-Gridiron linebackers, a unit known for their instincts, tackling ability, and versatility. Ashbrook’s Caleb Gordon is a sideline-to-sideline presence, consistently making plays against both the run and the pass. Lincolnton’s Jalaythan Mayfield, a rising junior, has already established himself as a tackling machine, racking up impressive numbers in tackles, tackles for loss, and sacks. Rolesville’s Jayden Griffin-Haynes brings exceptional athleticism and range, making him a key player in pass coverage and run support. Finally, Weddington’s Thomas Davis, Jr. combines physical toughness with keen awareness, consistently making impactful plays and disrupting offensive schemes. This quartet sets the tone for aggressive, intelligent defense.

Our defensive backfield is loaded with talent, featuring players who excel in coverage, support the run, and possess excellent ball skills. Myers Park’s Camdin Portis is a lockdown corner with a knack for breaking up passes and contributing effectively in run defense. Crest’s D'Various Surratt is a true ball-hawk, consistently coming away with interceptions and changing the momentum of games. Independence’s Nick Reddish brings a blend of physicality and coverage ability, capable of matching up with a variety of receivers. Anchoring this unit is Hough’s Samari Matthews, a highly-rated defensive back whose instincts and athleticism make him a formidable opponent for any wideout. This group ensures tight coverage and minimizes big plays downfield.

Versatile Aces and Special Teams Savants

The "Athlete" category highlights players whose diverse skill sets make them invaluable across multiple positions. Aiden Smalls from Clayton is a dynamic playmaker who can impact the game in various phases, whether it's on offense, defense, or special teams. West Charlotte’s KD Cotton also embodies versatility, bringing speed and agility that can be deployed effectively in numerous roles, making him a constant threat wherever he lines up. These two athletes add a crucial layer of flexibility and explosive potential to the All-Gridiron squad.

No elite team is complete without specialized talent, and our All-Gridiron special teams unit features some of the best in North Carolina. Punting duties fall to High Point Christian’s David Green, who consistently demonstrates a powerful leg and excellent hang time, flipping field position with ease. Kicking responsibilities are handled by Corvian’s Cooper Peterson, a reliable leg who has proven his consistency on both field goals and extra points. And ensuring seamless operations on every snap is Union Pines’s Taylon Tranel, a highly regarded long snapper whose precision and consistency are critical for successful special teams play.

As the 2025 high school football season approaches, the excitement is palpable. This Preseason All-Gridiron Team represents the pinnacle of high school football talent in North Carolina, a collection of remarkable student-athletes poised to deliver unforgettable performances. We congratulate each of these players on their selection and eagerly await the thrills they will bring to fields across the Old North State this fall.

CHARLOTTE – There was a buzz in the air at the Charlotte Convention Center for the 2025 American Conference Media Days, but not necessarily around the Charlotte 49ers. While other programs rolled in with hype, swagger, and championship chatter, Charlotte came in a little different. Under new head coach Tim Albin, the 49ers weren’t selling bold predictions. They were laying the foundation for something bigger, a full-on rebuild.

Coming off a 5-7 season, the national expectations are about as low as you’ll find. Phil Steele has Charlotte at No. 114, Lindy’s at 122, and Athlon at 124. The projected win total? Around 4.5. No one’s penciling them in for a bowl game. And with nearly 40 new transfers and just one returning offensive starter, redshirt senior Jonny King, it’s no wonder. This roster is almost entirely brand new.

But if Albin felt any pressure, he didn’t show it. The former Ohio head coach, who just won a MAC title in 2024, walked to the podium with calm confidence. His mantra, “Success is Through the Heart,” comes straight from his mentor, Frank Solich, and it’s more than just a catchphrase. Albin’s focus is building the culture first. Wins will come later.

“Good afternoon. Appreciate you being here,” he began, taking time to thank American Commissioner Tim Panetti and shout out Chancellor Sharon Gaber and AD Mike Hill. He even gave credit to his wife, Brooke, calling Charlotte a “two-person job.” That family-oriented tone is clearly part of how Albin plans to run the program.

Throughout the day, Albin’s message stayed consistent: this is a “total building job,” but it’s not starting from square one. He admitted the team has to clean up its mistakes, turnover margin and penalties were both big issues last season, and said that improving those areas is non-negotiable if Charlotte wants to take the next step.

As for all the new faces? Albin isn’t treating this like Year 1. “It’s not 56 freshmen,” he said. “We got a good nucleus coming back… Let’s have a year three mentality.” Translation: This isn’t a long-term rebuild. The expectation is to compete now.

Albin brought two veterans with him to Charlotte: safety Ja’Qurious Conley and offensive lineman Jonny King. Both are redshirt seniors and, in King’s case, a symbol of loyalty. King stuck around despite transfer offers from other programs. That decision wasn’t lost on Albin. “His passion for UNC Charlotte” stood out in the coach’s remarks, and it’s clear King is viewed as a leader in this reset.

Offensively, Charlotte will look different. Albin described the plan as a “controlled burn” under OC Todd Fitch, with a focus on establishing the run game to open up the pass. He wants “fast, physical, efficient” football. King will anchor the offensive line, and the quarterback competition, between Connor Harrell, Grayson Loftis, and Zach Wilcke, is still ongoing. But Albin praised the QB room’s football IQ and ball security.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a 2025 press conference without talking transfer portal. Charlotte hit it hard, bringing in the third-best portal class in the American and 78th nationally. It’s a bold “win now” approach, but also a challenge to Albin’s relationship-first style. How do you build trust when half the roster is new every year?

Albin didn’t dodge it. Instead, he said he wants to be directly involved in roster management, “picking the groceries,” as he put it. He believes if players know their coaches have their back, they might stick around, even if NIL dollars start calling elsewhere. It’s a risky philosophy in this era, but Albin’s betting on culture.

When asked about the goal for 2025, Albin didn’t mention bowls or win totals. He just wants that final game to mean something. “Let’s have that last game of the season… Let’s be it… Let’s have that game, it’s for something.” That “something” could be a bowl, a shot at respect, or just a marker that the program is headed in the right direction.

There’s no sugarcoating it: Charlotte has a tough road ahead. The schedule includes Georgia, North Carolina, and Army. Most of the roster is new. The media predictions are bleak. But Albin’s approach is clear, build the right foundation, invest in people, and the results will follow.

This wasn’t a media day full of soundbites or swagger. It was about purpose. The 49ers are under construction, but now, the blueprint is finally on the table.

CHARLOTTE – It was hot and buzzing in Charlotte as the 2025 American Conference Media Days kicked off, but few teams drew more interest than East Carolina. The buzz wasn’t just about the Pirates’ dramatic finish last season or their bowl win over NC State. It was about Blake Harrell, who’s officially in charge now after having the interim tag removed. And based on what he brought to the podium, there’s no doubt this program is entering a new era.

Harrell earned this shot. After stepping in midseason, he led ECU to a 4-1 finish and capped it off with a Military Bowl win against a ranked in-state rival. That momentum, and the players’ emotional reaction when his hire became permanent, signaled a culture shift in Greenville. As one note put it, Harrell “lit a new fire in the program.” And now, he’s ready to build something that lasts.

"I'm fired up to be the 23rd head football coach at East Carolina," Harrell said with a smile. "There’s no better place. It’s a special place, Dowdy-Ficklen, Greenville, Pirate Nation. Thank you for making it a place where football matters." He was appreciative, but quickly got back to business. "You can't take one single play from last season into this one," he said. "But you can take the confidence."

That theme, confidence without complacency, ran through everything Harrell said. He brought two key leaders with him: senior linebacker Ryheem Craig and quarterback Katin Houser. Craig brings relentless energy every day, according to Harrell, not just on the field but everywhere he goes. As for Houser, who went 5-2 as a starter last year, the coach had high praise. “His commitment to being a Pirate says a lot, especially in today’s college football world,” Harrell said. “But what I’m most proud of is the way he’s stepped up as a leader this offseason. He’s leading from the front.”

The 2025 roster is a big mix of old and new. ECU brought in 53 newcomers, including 23 true freshmen, and lost 22 seniors. It’s a young team, with about 40% of the roster made up of first- or second-year players. But Harrell likes what he’s seen. “What I’m most pleased with is how the locker room welcomed those guys. It’s all been about the team.” The goal? Blend that youth with the leadership of 28 seniors to create real depth and competition.

Defense, Harrell’s specialty, will look different. Just two starters are back. But he isn’t panicking. “It starts with how we do everything,” he said. “How we walk into the building, how we practice, how we meet. You’ve got to build the foundation before you talk about red zone defense or tempo offenses.” He emphasized effort and energy, two words that defined ECU’s late-season surge.

Among the new names to watch is linebacker Dameon Wilson, a Gastonia native who transferred in from Missouri and started in the bowl game. “He may not be a returning starter officially, but in my mind, he is,” Harrell said. Wilson will wear the coach-to-player headset and call the defense. On offense, Oklahoma transfer Quaize Pettaway has turned heads at slot receiver. And there are familiar faces returning, too, like Teagan Wilk and Xavier McIver, both of whom “know what it means to be a Pirate.”

Naturally, the season opener was a big topic, especially since it’s a rematch with NC State, the team ECU beat in last year’s bowl. That game ended with some postgame drama, and Harrell addressed it head-on. “It was an emotional game, a lot of energy. But we talk to our players all the time, positive or negative, you’ve got to learn the lesson and move on,” he said. “There’s no place for how that ended. Sportsmanship has to be at the forefront.” Still, he knows opening against a rival just 75 minutes away is a big deal. “It’ll be a great atmosphere in Raleigh,” he added. “But we’ve got to stay focused on us.”

Another wrinkle to the 2025 schedule: ECU has four Thursday night games. Harrell’s all for it. “That’s awesome publicity, not just for ECU, but for Pirate Nation and for the American Conference,” he said. With more national eyes on the program, he wants the team’s brand of tough, competitive football to be front and center.

As the media session wrapped up, Harrell’s message was clear: last season’s finish was just the beginning. The new-look Pirates are young, hungry, and determined to make their mark. Whether it’s Houser running the offense, Craig and Wilson flying around on defense, or a new face stepping up, ECU’s got the pieces to compete.

“We’ve got to grow and get better every day,” Harrell said. “That’s what it’s all about.”

For Pirate Nation, it sounds like the fire Harrell lit isn’t going out anytime soon.

CHARLOTTE – It wasn’t just another stop on the media day circuit. When Bill Belichick took the stage at the ACC Kickoff Thursday in Charlotte, he brought with him the gravitas of eight Super Bowl rings, decades of NFL dominance, and a plan to remake North Carolina football.

“Appreciate everybody coming out today,” Belichick opened simply. But what followed was an unfiltered look into how one of the greatest minds in football history plans to approach the college game, and why he chose Chapel Hill as the next chapter. “This is a great school with a great brand,” Belichick said, citing the support of Chancellor Roberts, Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham, and football administrator Steven Newmark. “The support’s been overwhelmingly tremendous. Not only supportive, but engaged and very excited.”

North Carolina Head Coach Bill Belichick Photo Credit: ACC Media Services

Now, the challenge shifts to the field. With 70 new players on the roster and a new staff headlined by defensive coordinator Stephen Belichick and offensive coordinator Freddie Kitchens, North Carolina is in full reset mode. “That’s a lot of people and a lot of turnover,” Belichick admitted. “We’re very much looking forward to getting out on the field next week and seeing it all come together.”

Rebuilding From the Ground Up

Belichick didn’t shy away from the obvious: this is a massive transition for a team coming off a 6–7 season. “We’ve hit a lot of personal high marks,” he said. “Whether it be strength, speed, explosion... these guys have really worked hard and they have a lot to show for it.”

While the TCU opener looms large, a primetime national stage against a top-25 team, Belichick’s message was pure process over panic. “Everybody has got a lot of focus, obviously, on the TCU opener... but really right now the big thing for us is just stacking good training days one on top of another,” he said. “Just put good days together... get closer to becoming the most consistent and best football team we can be.”

The Belichick Blueprint

Belichick is used to crafting dynasties in the pros, but his interest in college football has deep roots. “Developing players, that’s really what coaching is,” he said. “That’s what we do. We take great pride in that, myself and our staff.”

And development doesn’t just mean on the field. Citing past experiences from Cleveland and New England, Belichick emphasized that success often comes from overlooked places. “Whether it was at Cleveland, where Mike [Lombardi] and I put together an offensive line where four of the five starters were free agents, or at New England... players like Brady and Edelman... as well as some of the higher picks that developed like Gronkowski.”

It’s not just about finding talent. It’s about building it. “Players that want to come in, work hard, be good players, learn, compete, competition is what makes us all better.”

Defensive Identity, Built Through Relationships

For senior cornerback Thaddeus Dixon, a transfer from Washington, joining North Carolina wasn’t just about a new home, it was about working under one of the greatest defensive minds ever. “It's special,” Dixon said. “To just try to be a part of that pedigree, it’s honestly special. It’s something I look forward to every day, just getting better... and hopefully my name can be with those guys’ names.”

North Carolina DB Thaddeus Dixon Photo Credit: ACC Media Services

That name includes a few Belichick legends: Ty Law, Darrelle Revis. Dixon knows the bar. He also credited the staff, particularly Stephen Belichick, for transforming the way he thinks about the game. “I’ve built a very close relationship with Coach Steve... I feel like it’s really propelled my game to the next level as far as understanding the game and other offensive coordinators.”

But Dixon’s leadership role is just as vital as his on-field contributions. “You can expect a tough, smart, dependable team,” he said. “A team with a chip on their shoulder. Everybody got something to prove.”

Veteran Presence, New Leadership

Senior safety Will Hardy, a returning starter, echoed the excitement about the new direction, and the responsibility he feels to lead it. “We’ve got a lot of new players on this team... and they have a lot of talent,” Hardy said. “It’s one of my roles to get everyone established... really create a team chemistry that can go win on Saturdays.”

With Belichick’s system comes expectations, on the field, off the field, and within the locker room. Hardy sees himself as a culture setter. “It’s been important for me to be an encourager,” he said. “Being someone that people can count on and can trust, that’s important for me.”

North Carolina LB Will Hardy Photo Credit: ACC Media Services

That trust and cohesion, he emphasized, are what will fix a defense that struggled mightily last year. “You need all 11 playing on the same page,” Hardy said. “Building that team chemistry and really holding each other accountable... that’s on the top of our minds.”

The impact off the field has been just as profound. “Coach Belichick has brought former players to talk to us just about what else is there outside of just football,” Hardy said. “That’s nutrition, that’s sleep, that is recovery... so how can you pour that investment into something else?”

Wideout With a Mission

Sophomore Jordan Shipp, who bypassed transfer opportunities to remain at UNC when Belichick was hired, brought a personal perspective to media day, one rooted in family, faith, and a desire to build something bigger. “I want to start off by giving praise and glory to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ,” Shipp said. “Without Him I wouldn’t be here.”

Shipp spoke of his father’s influence, his desire to carve out his own name, and the value of advice he received before choosing UNC: “Where would you go if you couldn’t play football anymore?” That question stuck with him. So did the standard now in place under Belichick.

North Carolina WR Jordan Shipp Photo Credit: ACC Media Services

“You’re going to be tough, smart, dependable... we’re going to play to his standard,” Shipp said. “That standard is not going to drop off for nobody. You can’t obtain it, just get out the way, next guy up.” He also praised returning receiver Kobe Paysour, who briefly entered the portal before returning.

“Kobe brings experience. Kobe is a great player. Kobe is a great friend,” Shipp said. “I know I can rely on him off the field and on the field.”

A Professional Mind in a College World

While Belichick's methods are grounded in time-tested NFL discipline, he’s aware of the college football changes that await him, especially the impact of NIL, the transfer portal, and roster volatility. He compared the landscape to the pro world: “Not the same, but similar in terms of NIL, revenue sharing, free agency, if you will, and recruiting post-draft type recruiting as opposed to drafting.”

Belichick didn’t offer specifics about scheme or identity, but he made clear his priorities. “We’ll do what we feel like is best for the football team, like we always do, and just see how that plays out.”

The goal? Long-term excellence. Short-term noise? Block it out. “The great thing about working with the college players is just the growth and the development that we’ve seen,” he said. “As a coach, it’s fun. It’s fun to see players get better.”

And that fun is just beginning in Chapel Hill.

CHARLOTTE – If the 2025 Duke Blue Devils are going to return to Charlotte in December with an ACC Championship on the line, Manny Diaz believes it won’t be because of slogans or lofty goals. It will be because of standards. “The big message in our program this year is really, don’t tell me a lot about your goals, about your expectations, tell me about your standards to reach those goals,” Diaz said Thursday at ACC Kickoff.

Duke Head Co;ach Manny Diaz Photo Credit: ACC Media Services

Coming off a 9-win campaign in his first season at the helm, Diaz brought a confident, businesslike tone to the podium. His team, he said, is faster and stronger than it’s been in at least four years, numbers borne out during summer strength and conditioning workouts under David Feeley. “This is the strongest team we’ve had at Duke in the last four years,” Diaz said. “This is the fastest team we’ve had at Duke in the last four years… If we get challenged into an arm wrestling competition, we should expect to come out on top.”

But the games ahead won’t be decided in relay races or weight rooms. They’ll come down to whether Duke can meet the same standard, week after week, across what Diaz called “48 consecutive quarters.” “In a league that’s so tightly packed, that’s so competitive… it can be two or three quarters that dictates who’s back here in December and who’s not,” Diaz said.

Quarterback Upgrade, Culture Constant

One of the most watched additions to this year’s Duke team is quarterback Darian Mensah, a high-profile transfer from Tulane. The Blue Devils made a splash by landing the talented signal-caller, but Mensah made clear that the decision wasn’t purely transactional. “I think just the opportunity to compete at an elite conference like the ACC, an elite head coach with Manny, and an offense where you spread people out and throw the ball vertically,” Mensah said. “That’s the pieces that went into my decision.”

Duke QB Darian Mensah Photo Credit: ACC Media Services

Mensah acknowledged that adjusting to a new offense and culture has its challenges—especially given that Duke throws the ball far more than Tulane did, but said he’s embracing it fully. “It’s been my dream to play Power 5 football since I was a little kid,” he said. “It’s definitely not easy getting to know a new team when you had an old team just before… but I’m excited for the challenges because I know that’s where I’m going to elevate my game.”

The Blue Devils’ fast-paced offense, led by coordinator Jonathan Brewer, is already pushing Mensah to expand his game. “At Tulane we were more run-heavy, and this year will be more pass-heavy,” Mensah said. “So just the opportunity to showcase my talents even more than I did last year.” Mensah also credited Duke’s strength and conditioning culture, specifically Feeley’s demanding workouts—with helping him improve physically and fit into a program that “feeds off” its culture of intensity. “Everybody in the Duke program is wired the same,” Mensah said. “They feed off his energy.”

Veteran Voices: Rivers and Williams Set the Tone

While Mensah is new to Durham, Chandler Rivers and Wesley Williams are core pieces of the foundation Diaz inherited and is now building upon. Rivers, a senior cornerback with multiple preseason accolades, said his decision to stay at Duke amid coaching turnover and the explosion of the transfer portal came down to one thing: the locker room. “Honestly, it was the people in the locker room,” Rivers said. “Just the culture, I guess. It’s created by the players… I couldn’t leave that for anything.”

Diaz praised Rivers for his versatility—whether lining up at outside corner or in the slot, or even blitzing the quarterback. “He affects winning in so many ways,” Diaz said. “Some guys will get back there, and they can’t find a way to make a play. As you know, we like to get after the quarterback in our system… That’s what I talk about in terms of we’re proud of what he’s done.”

Duke DB Chandler Rivers Photo Credit: ACC Media Services

Rivers is coming off back-to-back seasons with pick-sixes against Florida State, and he said the team’s upset of the Seminoles in 2024—snapping a 23-game losing streak—validated years of effort. “It was amazing,” Rivers said. “It just shows that our preparation throughout the years and throughout the season helped us.”

He enters 2025 with national attention and personal expectations, though he insists his mindset is simple. “Just being better than I was last year,” Rivers said. “Take it a day at a time… keep my head down, prepare to the best of my ability.”

Up front, Williams—who led the team in sacks and tackles for loss in 2024—said the defensive line takes pride in carrying on a legacy of physicality and relentlessness. “There’s a powerful D-line lineage at Duke,” Williams said. “Myself and V.J., we’re trying to uphold that standard of being the nasty, physical Duke D-line that we’re used to having.”

Williams credited position coach Harland Bower for his development, calling him “passionate” and “caring. “If he could go out there and put the pads on right now and play, he would,” Williams said. “He loves ball. He cares about us as individuals and as men.”

Building with Trust, and the Transfer Portal

A major storyline over the past year has been how Diaz handled the transition from Mike Elko and earned buy-in from a team that was already on the rise. He emphasized consistency in building trust “You don’t really get to know more until you get into more high-stress environments like what football season brings,” Diaz said. “Trust is consistency over time.”

Reflecting on the one-on-one meetings he held with players when he arrived, Diaz shared a conversation with Williams that helped define his view of Duke’s culture “He said, we go on campus, and we feel like we’re around the best of the best,” Diaz said. “When we come into the locker room, I feel we have the best locker room of anywhere in the country.”

Duke DL Wesley Williams Photo Credit: ACC Media Services

Diaz has embraced the transfer portal, calling it a chance for “surgical” adjustments, but stressed that any new player must enhance, not disrupt, the locker room “When a guy walks in and [teammates] say, why did they bring him in… that’s going to lead to a problem,” Diaz said. “Morale is always above everything in every decision we make.”

Diaz also expanded on how Duke balances NIL deals with its “non-transactional” philosophy, noting that compensation and character don’t have to be at odds “It’s not like you have to invent this,” Diaz said. “You want to create a culture where the people who have the best work are compensated in the best way… It’s new to college football. It’s not new to capitalism and economics.”

Championship Standard, One Quarter at a Time

While Diaz was careful to avoid overhyping preseason expectations, he didn’t shy away from the idea that this team is built for big moments, if it can stay consistent. “We want to be a developmental program because we can be,” Diaz said. “We want guys to stay at Duke for four years to meet their goals.”

That foundation, he believes, gives the Blue Devils a unique chance to build something lasting in an era when college football often feels like musical chairs. “I really do believe we have a chance to build a proper team,” he said. “We were a team that didn’t flinch, that was mentally tough, and believed in one another.”

As Duke prepares to open fall camp Sunday night, the focus will be on translating that toughness into 48 quarters of excellence. “We train for three-quarters of the year with that in mind,” Williams said. “There’s a lot that goes into it… more than just playing hard and wanting to, you’ve got to do the details.”

The 2025 season will soon put those details to the test.