Duke’s football program is at a crossroads, but one early win could change everything. As the 2025 season approaches, analysts are debating whether the Blue Devils have what it takes to break into serious College Football Playoff contention.
While expectations for Duke haven’t always been high, ESPN’s Pete Thamel believes that if they secure a win against Illinois, their path to the playoff conversation suddenly becomes much clearer. Since they have a kind of favorable schedule, Duke has a real opportunity to make waves in the national rankings.
Pete Thamel Predicts Big Playoff Push for Duke Blue Devils with Early Win
Duke’s path to College Football Playoff contention may not be as far-fetched as some believe. According to ESPN’s Pete Thamel, an early-season victory over Illinois could set the Blue Devils on a path toward serious playoff discussions.
On a recent College GameDay podcast, Thamel said, “If Duke is able to get by Illinois, there is a path there for them to be in the thick of College Football Playoff contention.”
Last season, Duke ended with a solid 9-4 record, placing third in the ACC Coastal Division. Quarterback Maalik Murphy led their offense, throwing for 2,933 yards and 26 touchdowns. But with Murphy now headed to Oregon State, Duke had to act quickly to fill the void.
Head coach Manny Diaz wasted no time, securing Tulane’s Darian Mensah through the transfer portal. Mensah is coming off a strong season, passing for 2,723 yards and 22 touchdowns. This move was a clear statement from Diaz that he is pushing the limits to strengthen both the roster and the offense.
Thamel explained that if Duke beats Illinois, the road ahead becomes much smoother. “If you go past Tulane, all of a sudden, you got NC State at home, you’re at Syracuse, you’re probably favored at Cal, Georgia Tech at home, and then they go to Clemson, November 1. That game could have significant stakes,” he added.
This stretch of games could help Duke gain serious momentum. But first, they must get past Illinois. Under head coach Bret Bielema, Illinois is known for strong play on both lines, which will test Duke’s strength up front.
“One thing Illinois has always done is it’s tested you on both of your lines, especially since Bret Bielema has been there. So it will be a significant test,” Thamel added.
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Now, it’s all about unlocking Duke’s offense. If they can do that, their favorable schedule gives them a real shot. A playoff push doesn’t seem like rocket science anymore.
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