Duke (19-2) at Syracuse (10-12)
- When: Feb 5 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: JMA Wireless Dome, Syracuse, NY, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN2
Game Preview
Duke Looks to Stay Perfect in ACC Play
The second-ranked Duke Blue Devils are rolling through the ACC, and they have no plans of slowing down when they visit Syracuse. Sitting at 11-0 in conference play, Duke is eyeing its first 12-0 ACC start since 2005-06. With Cooper Flagg leading the charge, the Blue Devils look like a team on a mission, boasting a 15-game winning streak, the longest active run in the nation.
Flagg has been nothing short of dominant, averaging 23.3 points per game in ACC action while ranking among the top rebounders in the conference. His all-around play has turned Duke into a defensive powerhouse, allowing just 60.0 points per game—fifth-best in the country. With Kon Knueppel and Tyrese Proctor also stepping up offensively, the Blue Devils have multiple scoring options that can dismantle opponents.
Duke’s recent 87-70 victory over North Carolina showcased its ability to dictate the pace on both ends of the floor. The defense forced 14 turnovers, creating easy transition opportunities. Expect a similar game plan against Syracuse.
Syracuse Looks to Play Spoiler
The Orange snapped a three-game losing streak with a 75-66 win over Cal, but taking down Duke is a different challenge altogether. Syracuse has been inconsistent in ACC play, sitting at 4-7 in the conference, and J.J. Starling’s shooting woes have been a big reason why.
Starling, who averages 16.7 points per game in ACC action, has struggled in his last two outings, shooting a combined 9-for-34 from the field. If he can’t find his rhythm, Syracuse will have a tough time keeping pace with Duke’s high-powered offense.
One area where the Orange could make an impact is rebounding. Syracuse is seventh in the ACC in rebounding margin (+1.5), but it will have to battle Duke’s dominant +10.6 margin—the best in the conference. If Eddie Lampkin Jr. and company can limit second-chance points, Syracuse might be able to keep this one closer than expected.
Betting Prediction
Duke has won nine straight games against Syracuse, including an 86-66 rout last season. With Flagg in elite form and the Blue Devils locking down defensively, the Orange will have a hard time keeping up.
Prediction: Duke covers the spread (-17.5) in a high-scoring game that pushes the total over 142.5.
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- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
