NC State (9-10) at Duke (17-2)
- When: Jan 27 2025, 8:30 PM
- Where: Cameron Indoor Stadium, Durham, NC, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Preview
With Duke heavily favored by 22 points and the total set at 134.5, this ACC matchup offers unique betting angles, especially with Duke on a 13-game winning streak and NC State struggling. Let’s dive into the details:
Duke Blue Devils Analysis
The No. 2 Blue Devils are riding high after a gritty 63-56 win over Wake Forest, showing they can win even when their offense isn’t firing on all cylinders. Duke’s toughness was on display as they adjusted defensively, deploying a rarely-used zone to secure the victory.
Freshman phenom Cooper Flagg continues to shine, averaging 23 points in ACC play, including a 24-point outing against Wake. Flagg has 10 games this season with 20+ points, and against an NC State defense that has been shaky during their four-game skid, he’s primed for another big performance.
Duke’s defensive versatility has been a key factor, and their ability to control tempo could make this a challenging game for NC State to keep close. However, Duke’s offense has shown some inefficiencies, posting a season-low 36.8% shooting in their last game. While this may give NC State bettors hope, Duke’s home dominance and motivation for revenge after last season’s losses to the Wolfpack should keep them in control.
NC State Wolfpack Analysis
The Wolfpack are struggling, losing four straight, including a tough 63-57 defeat at home to SMU. Offensive woes have been the primary issue, with head coach Kevin Keatts emphasizing the need to “figure out how to score.”
NC State guard Marcus Hill leads the team with 13.2 points per game, but the Wolfpack will need contributions from across the roster to compete with a loaded Duke lineup. Freshman Paul McNeil showed promise with a season-high eight points Saturday and will look to build on that in this high-profile matchup.
One bright spot for NC State is their history against Duke. They upset the Blue Devils twice last season, including in the ACC tournament and the NCAA tournament Elite Eight. While this is largely a new Duke roster, the rivalry factor and potential revenge motivation could play a role in Monday’s game.
Betting Trends & Key Matchups
Duke: Covers large spreads at home with regularity, especially against struggling offenses.
NC State: Offensive inefficiency and a recent losing streak make them a tough bet, but their rivalry history with Duke might provide a spark.
Total: Duke’s defense and NC State’s offensive struggles suggest this game could lean toward the Under 134.5.
Betting Predictions
Duke’s defensive adjustments and superior talent should overwhelm NC State, especially at home. While 22 points is a hefty spread, the Blue Devils’ motivation to avenge last season’s losses and NC State’s offensive inconsistency make Duke the safer pick. However, the total may come into play as both teams lean on their defenses.
Best Bets:
Duke -22.0 (Expect Duke to dominate on both ends)
Under 134.5 (Low-scoring trends for both teams continue)
Final Score Prediction:
Duke 78, NC State 53
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
