Duke (20-2) at Clemson (18-5)
- When: Feb 8 2025, 6:30 PM
- Where: Littlejohn Coliseum, Clemson, SC, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Preview
Spread: Duke -5.5 | Total: 132.5
Duke Blue Devils: Aiming to Keep Rolling
The No. 2 Blue Devils are in peak form, riding a dominant 16-game winning streak as they head into their toughest remaining ACC matchup. Duke (20-2, 12-0 ACC) has been nearly unstoppable, boasting strong chemistry and depth that has allowed them to consistently overpower opponents.
Tyrese Proctor, who leads the team’s perimeter attack, emphasized the bond this Duke squad has built both on and off the court. That cohesion was on full display in their 83-54 rout of Syracuse on Wednesday, where Proctor drained four 3-pointers en route to a team-high 16 points. When Proctor hits at least three shots from deep, Duke has gone 8-1 this season and 21-2 in his career—making his performance a key prop angle for bettors.
Freshman phenom Cooper Flagg had a quieter night against Syracuse with just 11 points, but Duke’s balanced offensive attack ensures they aren’t reliant on any one player. With multiple scoring threats, the Blue Devils remain a challenge to contain, even for Clemson’s stingy defense.
Duke’s defense has also been rock-solid, forcing opponents into low-percentage shots while controlling the boards. However, they may be without key reserve Mason Gillis (4.8 PPG, 2.5 RPG), who missed the last game due to illness. His absence could slightly impact their second-unit rotation.
Clemson Tigers: Seeking Redemption
Clemson (18-5, 10-2 ACC) had a frustrating collapse in their last outing, falling 89-88 in a grueling triple-overtime loss to Georgia Tech. That marked their third overtime loss this season, showcasing a trend of struggling to close out tight games.
The Tigers are fueled by Chase Hunter (17.7 PPG) and Ian Schieffelin (12.8 PPG, 9.5 RPG), with Schieffelin coming off a massive 23-point performance. Clemson’s interior presence will be crucial, especially on the boards, where they need to clean up defensive rebounding issues that allowed Georgia Tech to grab 24 offensive rebounds and score 29 second-chance points.
Coach Brad Brownell admitted that fatigue could be a factor following the marathon against Georgia Tech, especially with Hunter and Jaeden Zackery both logging 50+ minutes. With Duke’s deep rotation and relentless pace, Clemson could wear down late, which makes the second-half spread a potential betting angle.
Betting Trends & Predictions
Duke has covered the spread in 7 of its last 10 games.
Clemson is 1-3 in overtime games, struggling to close out tight contests.
Duke has the edge in rebounding and defense, ranking among the ACC’s best.
Clemson’s fatigue factor after a triple-OT battle is a major concern.
Expect Clemson to come out energized in front of their home crowd, but Duke’s depth and defensive pressure should allow them to take control as the game progresses. If Proctor continues his hot shooting and Flagg finds his rhythm, the Blue Devils should cover the 5.5-point spread and extend their winning streak.
Final Prediction: Duke -5.5 | Projected Score: Duke 72, Clemson 63
✅ Download here the Super Bowl LIX Party Sheet
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
