The Tailgate: Duquesne

Duquesne Dukes Football

A New Era Under Ron Harper Jr.

Duquesne University is entering a new era of football under the leadership of head coach Ron Harper Jr. The Dukes are coming off a disappointing 2022 season, finishing with a record of 5-7. However, there is reason for optimism in Pittsburgh as Harper Jr. brings a wealth of experience and a winning pedigree to the program.

Harper Jr. is a former NFL player who spent seven seasons in the league with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, and New York Giants. He was a member of the Giants' Super Bowl XLVI championship team and was named to the Pro Bowl in 2014.

After his playing career ended, Harper Jr. transitioned to coaching, serving as the wide receivers coach at Rutgers University for two seasons before being hired by Duquesne in December 2022.

Harper Jr. has already made a significant impact on the Dukes' program, overhauling the coaching staff and implementing a new offense and defense. He has also brought in a number of talented recruits, including several transfers from Power Five schools.

With Harper Jr. at the helm, the Dukes are poised to make a run at the FCS playoffs in 2023. The Dukes have a talented roster, led by quarterback Joe Mischler and running back Billy Lucas. The defense is also expected to be strong, with several returning starters from last season.

The Dukes open the 2023 season on September 2nd at home against the Robert Morris Colonials.