(BCSNN) — Duke held its first scrimmage of fall camp Saturday night at Wallace Wade Stadium, with quarterbacks Darian Mensah and Henry Belin IV leading the way in a competitive four-quarter session. Head coach Manny Diaz praised the team’s execution and depth, calling the outing “a strong first step” as the Blue Devils prepare for their Aug. 28 season opener against Elon.

Mensah, a redshirt sophomore transfer from Tulane, completed 20 of 29 passes for 264 yards, showing command of the offense and chemistry with his receivers. Belin, entering his redshirt junior season, went 14-of-26 for 175 yards and added a rushing touchdown. “Both guys moved the ball well,” Diaz said. “Darian’s poise and Henry’s toughness stood out. We’re in a good spot at quarterback.”

The receiving corps was equally impressive. Que’Sean Brown led all pass catchers with eight receptions for 151 yards, including a 75-yard touchdown. Sahmir Hagans added five catches for 45 yards, while Chase Tyler hauled in four for 65. Oklahoma transfer Andrel Anthony, returning from a 2023 ACL tear, made several contested grabs and continues to build rapport with Mensah. “That group is coming together fast,” Diaz said. “They’re explosive and reliable.”

Defensively, Duke showcased its depth and physicality. The front seven, anchored by Wesley Williams and Vincent Anthony Jr., generated consistent pressure and forced multiple stops. Linebackers Tre Freeman and Nick Morris Jr. were active in coverage and run support, while the secondary—led by Chandler Rivers and Caleb Weaver—limited big plays and broke up several passes.

The Blue Devils will hold two more scrimmages before finalizing their depth chart. With a revamped offense and a defense returning key playmakers, Duke enters the 2025 campaign aiming to build on last season’s 9–4 finish and Gator Bowl appearance. “We’ve got speed, strength, and hunger,” Diaz said. “Now it’s about sustaining it.”