Duke's Nate Sheppard strengthens Heisman case against NC State

Duke Blue Devils running back Nate Sheppard. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Duke's Nate Sheppard strengthens Heisman case after performance against NC State

By Pearson Gillam | Last updated Nov 7, 2026 5:18 PM ET

The Heisman Trophy ceremony is 35 days away, and Duke running back Nate Sheppard could receive an invitation.

The Blue Devils totaled 461 yards and stifled NC State’s offense Saturday on their way to a 41-3 rout. While a kick six at the end of the first half will garner much of the attention, Sheppard deserves the spotlight. He carried the ball 18 times for 217 yards and three touchdowns, including a 69-yard score within the first minute of the game.

It’s the fifth time this season Sheppard has rushed for more than 100 yards, coming just shy of his career-high 227-yard performance in Week 1 against Tulane. He’s also contributed in the passing game, recording 306 receiving yards and four touchdowns.

Thanks to Saturday’s performance, Sheppard eclipsed the 1,000-yard mark for the season and still leads the ACC in rushing. He finished last season with second-team All-ACC honors but has a chance to bring home hardware this year.

THERE. GOES. NATE. SHEPPARD. #NateTrain x @HeismanTrophy https://t.co/r8sciVCGyt
— Duke Football (@DukeFOOTBALL) November 7, 2026

Duke is still a CFP contender

Something that would boost Sheppard’s case is a late push for the College Football Playoff. The Blue Devils aren’t ranked but sit at 7-2 and can still reach the conference championship game. Duke has prime opportunities to skyrocket up the rankings, with road trips to No. 1 Miami and No. 16 Wake Forest looming.

If Sheppard continues to dazzle against better competition, he’ll not only be on his way to New York but also have Duke in the playoff mix come December.

Pearson Gillam

I am a writer from Atlanta, Georgia, who attends Oklahoma State University. I am majoring in Sports Media and have experience covering the school's track and field team for the local newspaper. I have expertise in college football and college basketball, but I also enjoy the NFL, cross-country running, and track and field.

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