If you are undecided between several engineering specializations (very typical!) it is better to attend a university that is highly rated in multiple disciplines. Duke is a bit below the others in that aspect, merely excellent vs elite. I have no doubt you would be able to handle the initial load along with football, especially if you can take a light load in fall semester, but you may miss out on many of the student clubs and projects which distinguish these elite schools, especially in engineering. As you progress past the introductory courses, that may change.
You may also want to check into school schedule and see if you can make up some classes over the spring/summer if your load is light in fall. Not all of the universities operate a full schedule then.
As far as research, Duke and Stanford top your list, followed by GT and Northwestern. All have strong Alumni groups and good placement. A lot is going to depend on where you want to live since career placement tends to be regional