Duke University is reportedly targeting Penn State defensive coordinator Manny Diaz to fill the position of head football coach, as per a source familiar with the hiring process. Diaz would step in for Mike Elko, who is departing the program to assume the role of head coach at Texas A&M. This pursuit comes after Duke's successful season, which included a four-game win streak that featured a victory over Clemson. The team concluded the year with a 7-5 record and is set to face Troy in the upcoming Birmingham Bowl on December 23.

Prior to joining Penn State's coaching staff in December 2021, Diaz served as the head coach of the Miami Hurricanes from 2019 to 2021, leading the team to a cumulative 21-15 record over the course of three seasons. While his final season saw the Hurricanes finish with a 7-5 record, the team faced a rocky start, which put Diaz under scrutiny early on.

Diaz's presence at Penn State has had a significant impact, elevating the Nittany Lions' defense to the top ranks of the FBS. Under his leadership, the team currently holds the highest national rankings in sacks, yards per play, yards per game, and pressure rate.

Despite the deliberate approach to the coaching search, Diaz's potential appointment may pose logistical challenges for Duke, particularly with regards to the ongoing transfer portal. Players were left uncertain about the identity of their future head coach until now. Nevertheless, Duke views Diaz as an ideal fit for their football program, having experienced success under Elko, another defensive-minded coach with a background in high-academic institutions. Moreover, Diaz's previous tenure as a head coach in the same conference further solidifies his suitability for the position. Duke officials were inclined towards Diaz from the beginning of the search process, making this outcome a logical choice.

During his time at Penn State, Diaz garnered immense appreciation from his players. Besides orchestrating one of the country's top defenses, Diaz consistently expressed his desire to become a head coach once again, a goal that was well-known by both his players and head coach James Franklin. While Diaz emphasized the need for selectivity in his decision-making process, his departure from Penn State, though significant, does not come as a surprise.

Diaz's impact at Penn State was largely attributed to his unique personality and coaching approach. His ability to inspire and motivate players, combined with his talent for simplifying complex game strategies, resonated strongly with the players at Penn State.

As Duke University sets its sights on Manny Diaz, the potential addition of his coaching prowess and leadership could pave the way for continued success on the football field and further establishment of the program's identity.