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Syracuse (15-11) vs Duke (23-2)
- When: Feb 16 2026, 7:00 PM
- Where: Cameron Indoor Stadium, Durham, NC, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
Syracuse vs (4) Duke Preview & Prediction
Spread: Duke -20.0
Moneyline: Duke (-10000)
Total: 143.0
Duke Blue Devils: Cameron Indoor Kings
Duke is cruising into the final stretch like a team that just found the fast forward button. First place in the ACC, eight wins over ranked opponents, and a defense that can turn games into rock fights whenever it feels like it. That is not hype, that is consistency.
The Blue Devils just handled a ranked Clemson squad by leaning into defense, effort, and glass control. Cameron Boozer continues to stuff stat sheets like it is a weekly routine. Duke has also made a habit of owning the boards, which is a dangerous trait when you are laying 20 at home.
But here is the key from a betting lens. Duke does not always play at breakneck pace. With a total sitting at 143.0, this number suggests a controlled game. When you combine elite defense with slower tempo, backdoor covers suddenly become very real.
Duke should dominate stretches, especially at Cameron Indoor. The only question is margin, not outcome.
Syracuse Orange: Cuse Comeback Crew
Syracuse might not be trending toward a title, but they are trending toward belief. Two straight dramatic wins, including a double overtime marathon and a buzzer beater, can do wonders for confidence.
This is a team that has shown fight. They shoot the three well when in rhythm and can get contributions across the starting five. Kiyan Anthony’s recent resurgence gives them an extra scoring spark, and when the bench chips in, Syracuse becomes much harder to blow out.
Catching 20 points means you do not have to win. You just have to stay connected. If Syracuse hits early threes and keeps this game in the 60s or low 70s, the spread becomes enormous relative to pace.
Betting Breakdown and Prediction
Duke wins. That part feels straightforward. They are deeper, more balanced, and nearly unbeatable at home.
But 20 points in a conference game with a modest total? That is a different conversation. Expect Duke to build a comfortable lead, then manage the clock while Syracuse scraps for late buckets.
Final Score: Duke 78, Syracuse 63
Lean: Syracuse +20.0
Total: Under 143.0
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
