Report: Manny Diaz finalizing deal to become head coach of ACC team

Former Miami Hurricanes coach Manny Diaz is reportedly on the verge of landing a new head-coaching position.

Diaz is the top target for the Duke Blue Devils in their coaching search, according to Pete Thamel of ESPN. The two sides are expected to finalize a deal within the next day.

Diaz would be the replacement for Mike Elko, who left to become head coach at Texas A&M after revitalizing the Duke football program.

The Blue Devils are getting a solid hire in Diaz, whose reputation has only improved since he left Miami. As Penn State’s defensive coordinator, he led the best defense in the country, at least in terms of yards per game. Miami has also failed to significantly improve after replacing him following a 21-15 stint at the school.

Duke will be Diaz’s second head-coaching job if the deal does in fact get done. The Blue Devils will want him to keep them moving forward after a successful 9-4 campaign.