In 1953, Duke was one of the key players in the creation of the Atlantic Coast Conference, and big-time football was one of the driving forces.Fifty years later, the ACC appears on the verge of the biggest change since its inception, poised to bring in at least two, and perhaps as many as four, new members. Once again, big-time football is playing an important role.

In late August, there is still a feeling of anticipation for fans of Duke football. When the season is young, they come to Wallace Wade Stadium holding on to a hope that this season will be different. Unlikely heroes will emerge. The sum of the team will be greater than the whole. The magic of 1989 and 1994 will be recaptured.