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Texas Tech (8-3) vs Duke (11-0)
- When: Dec 20 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
(19) Texas Tech vs (3) Duke Preview & Prediction
Spread: Duke -8.5
Moneyline: Duke (-390)
Total: 153.5
Duke Blue Devils Betting Breakdown
Duke enters this neutral site showdown riding momentum and a spotless record, having already tested itself against multiple high level opponents. Jon Scheyer’s squad has embraced tough scheduling and now heads to New York looking to close nonconference play with another statement win. Duke has shown balance on both ends, though the recent win over Lipscomb exposed some sloppiness with turnovers and slow starts. That performance served as a reminder that even elite teams can be punished when focus dips.
Cameron Boozer continues to anchor the Blue Devils with consistent production inside, while Duke’s depth allows Scheyer to rotate lineups without sacrificing intensity. The Blue Devils have handled ranked opponents well this season and appear comfortable playing in high pressure environments away from home. Defensively, Duke has the ability to disrupt passing lanes and force opponents into rushed possessions, which becomes critical against teams that rely heavily on isolation scoring.
From a betting perspective, Duke’s ability to rebound, defend, and score efficiently in transition makes them well suited to cover larger numbers against teams that struggle defensively. If Duke cleans up turnovers and controls tempo early, the favorite is positioned to separate in the second half.
Texas Tech Red Raiders Betting Breakdown
Texas Tech arrives with confidence after winning four of its last five, but the resume still lacks a signature victory over a ranked opponent. The Red Raiders have been competitive against top programs, yet finishing games has been an issue. Offensively, Texas Tech can score in bunches, especially when its top scorers get rolling, but defensive lapses have consistently put pressure on the offense to keep up.
The Red Raiders’ defensive efficiency is the biggest concern entering this matchup. Allowing nearly 74 points per game leaves little margin for error against a disciplined Duke team. Texas Tech’s willingness to go deeper into the bench could help energy levels, but it also risks inconsistency against a Blue Devils squad that punishes mistakes.
Injury concerns further complicate things for Texas Tech, particularly against a Duke frontcourt that thrives on physical play and second chance opportunities.
Prediction and Betting Outlook
With Duke favored by 8.5 and the total set at 153.5, this matchup profiles as a fast paced game early before Duke’s defense asserts control. Texas Tech should score enough to keep things interesting initially, but Duke’s depth and efficiency should wear them down over forty minutes.
Final Score: Duke 82, Texas Tech 70
Lean: Duke -8.5
Total: Under 153.5
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
