Duke Prepares, Clemson Struggles Before Key Matchup

Duke used a rare second bye to conduct a full self-scout under Manny Diaz, identifying needs for more consistent vertical connections, limiting explosive pass plays, improving run defense, praising steady special-teams coverage and opening a kicker competition as health improves entering a defining five-game stretch. Clemson has stumbled to a 3–4 record, with offensive inconsistency (a middling running game and reliance on the pass), the loss of top receiver Bryant Wesco Jr., and uneven quarterback play as Cade Klubnik has regressed and missed time. Clemson’s defense has underperformed in pass rush and overall yards allowed despite projected NFL talent, leaving the Tigers unlikely to reach the ACC title. The Tigers need roughly three of their remaining five games to secure bowl eligibility. Saturday’s Duke–Clemson matchup will serve as a key measuring-stick, with Duke seeing an opportunity to prove itself against a historically dominant but struggling Clemson program.