Duke vs NC State Odds, Pick & Prediction

Monday night’s college basketball matchup between the Duke Blue Devils (23-6, 14-4 ACC) and North Carolina State Wolfpack (17-12, 9-9 ACC) promises to be a compelling encounter with significant implications for both teams.

This game not only highlights the regional rivalry between these programs, but also comes at a critical juncture in their respective seasons, with each team eager to solidify their standing in the highly competitive ACC.

The Blue Devils have been a force to reckon with this season, showcasing a dynamic offense that ranks eighth nationally in adjusted efficiency. Their effective field goal percentage (eFG%) standing at 16th underscores their shooting prowess, making them one of the most efficient scoring teams in the country.

Additionally, Duke ranks 48th in turnover percentage and 95th in offensive rebounding, which highlights its ability to maintain possession and capitalize on second-chance points.

However, it's not just the offense that's been turning heads. The Blue Devils’ defense is also formidable, ranking 20th in adjusted efficiency. Their ability to limit opponents' scoring through effective field goal defense (76th in eFG%) and strong defensive rebounding (34th) forms a balanced threat that challenges any opponent.

On the other side, N.C. State brings its own set of strengths to this matchup. The Wolfpack's offense, while not as efficient in shooting with a 204th rank in eFG%, excels at protecting the ball and ranks ninth in turnover percentage. That discipline could prove crucial against Duke's high-caliber defense.

However, N.C. State's challenges in offensive rebounding (196th) and free-throw rate (235th) may limit its scoring opportunities.

Defensively, N.C. State has room for improvement. With an adjusted efficiency rank of 81st and struggles when it comes defensive rebounding (166th), the Wolfpack will need to step up to contain Duke's multifaceted offense. Their middling eFG% defense (165th) will be tested by Duke's sharpshooters.

Considering the statistical trends and the overall performance of both teams, taking Duke to cover as a 5.5-point favorite appears to be the most compelling bet for this game.

Despite playing at N.C. State, Duke's superior offensive efficiency, combined with a robust defense that can challenge the Wolfpack's scoring avenues, positions the Blue Devils favorably. Duke's ability to convert on offensive opportunities and rebound defensively should limit N.C. State's second-chance points, a critical factor given the Wolfpack's challenges with offensive efficiency.

Take Duke -5.5 and expect the Blue Devils to showcase the same dominance they have shown all season.

Pick: Duke -5.5 (Play to -6.5)

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