(Stats Perform) - Duquesne hopes a strong nonconference schedule will lead to title contention in the Northeast Conference this year.

The Dukes were the preseason favorite last year, but tied for third with a 4-3 conference record while finishing 6-5.

This year, coach Jerry Schmitt's squad will have first-time matchups with two FBS opponents, Air Force (Sept. 5) and Coastal Carolina (Sept. 19), in its first three games with a trip in between to Youngstown State on Sept. 12. The Dukes lost 34-14 against the Missouri Valley Football Conference program last season.

Duquesne will play five times at home. The Dukes are projected to return eight starters.

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2020 Duquesne Schedule

Sept. 5, at Air Force

Sept. 12, at Youngstown State

Sept. 19, at Coastal Carolina

Sept. 26, Virginia-Lynchburg

Oct. 3, at Central Connecticut State*

Oct. 10, Robert Morris*

Oct. 17, at Wagner*

Oct. 24, Sacred Heart*

Oct. 31, Long Island*

Nov. 14, Bryant*

Nov. 21, at Saint Francis*

* - Northeast Conference game