# College football preseason preparations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/college-football-preseason-preparations
> Updated: 2026-08-18T13:30:00.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

College football programs, specifically Duke and NC State, are undergoing preparations for their upcoming seasons through fall training camps.

At Duke, head coach Manny Diaz is managing position group evaluations, including a competition for the starting quarterback position between transfer Walker Eget and redshirt freshman Dan Mahan. Diaz noted that the team must “get through this training camp” before a starter is named. While freshmen often face challenges in earning playing time, recruits such as linebacker Colsen Gatten have reportedly distinguished themselves during scrimmages.

NC State is entering its 14th season under coach Dave Doeren with a focus on returning key players. The team is expected to rely heavily on quarterback CJ Bailey, following his statistical improvements last season, and running back Duke Scott.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-18: NC State and Duke prepare for upcoming college football seasons

NC State and Duke prepare for upcoming college football seasons, with NC State relying on QB CJ Bailey and Duke evaluating rookies during fall training camp.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nc-state-and-duke-prepare-for-upcoming-college-football-seasons

### 2026-08-07: Football programs face quarterback competitions ahead of new seasons

Duke and Norcross football programs face key positional battles, including quarterback competitions, as they prepare for their upcoming seasons.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/football-programs-face-quarterback-competitions-ahead-of-new-seasons

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Cite as: College football preseason preparations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/college-football-preseason-preparations