theKEYS to the Game Report: Duke Game

Nov. 13, 2026 -

No. 7 Miami (8-1, 6-0 ACC) hosts Duke (6-2, 4-2 ACC) on Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium.

Former Miami head coach Manny Diaz returns to the Rock for the first time since he was fired at Miami. Will this be a revenge game?

As is our tradition, we attempt to identify the Keys to the Game and a Miami victory.

WIN THE TRENCHES…

Miami defensive line must control Duke’s rushing attack. Period.

The Blue Devils’ star running back Nate Sheppard is legit. He’s one of the best backs in all of college football. He has rushed for 1,189 yards (6.2 YPC) and 17 touchdowns. Sheppard is also an excellent reciter out of the backfield with 32 catches for 306 yards (9.6 YPC) and 4 touchdowns. Force Duke to pass. They are ranked 100th in passing offense. Control Sheppard’s impact on the game and Miami should win.

Miami’s offensive line must bounce back from the Notre Dame game.

Duke has a very good front seven. The Canes need to establish their power rushing attack early on order to open opportunities for their banged up passing attack. The Canes’ offensive line must win against one of the best defensive lines in the ACC

PLAY A CLEAN GAME...

Penalties have cost Miami this season. Lean that part of the game up. No pre-snap penalties!

STAY HEALTHY...

We are in the home stretch of the regular season. Post season is on the horizon. We need to be as healthy as possible for a run at the ACC Championship and beyond.

GO CANES!