David Cutcliffe’s relationship with Peyton Manning is well-documented, as the head man of Duke football has served as a coach, mentor and friend to the future Hall of Fame quarterback. So how does the Blue Devil coach feel when Manning provides encouraging words to the enemy?
Following UNC’s season-opening loss to South Carolina, Manning called Tar Heel quarterback Marquise Williams to share some friendly advice. The two have gotten to know one another over the last couple years as Williams has worked at the Manning Passing Academy.
Cutcliffe wasn’t surprised by Manning’s actions.
“I’ve had conversations with Peyton, Eli, Cooper and Archie about Marquise, and he’s a good football player and a conscientious quarterback,” Cutcliffe said. “Peyton is going to respect any of those young people that take their roles seriously.”
The Duke coach stated that Manning’s phone call to Williams is just an example of the type of leader he is.
“I think that’s what mentors should do,” he said. “He doesn’t make any bones about it.”
During the conversation, Cutcliffe also discussed ongoing upgrades to Duke’s athletic facilities, his opinion on early season polls and how the lack of preseason games in college football makes it difficult for coaches to gauge their team’s progress. Click below to hear the full interview: