#2 Duke vs. North Carolina Predictions, Picks & Odds: CBB on ESPN, 3/8
The Duke Blue Devils and North Carolina Tar Heels are gearing up to reignite their storied rivalry in a thrilling matchup this Saturday night.
Will Duke maintain its stronghold and reinforce its reputation as a powerhouse in the ACC, or can North Carolina achieve a pivotal upset in Chapel Hill? Let’s explore our #2 Duke vs. North Carolina picks and examine how both teams measure up before this highly anticipated clash.
#2 Duke vs. North Carolina Predictions Today: Saturday, 3/8
Duke comes into the game as one of the top teams in the nation, boasting a seven-game winning streak and aiming for the ACC regular-season title. On the other hand, North Carolina has fought hard to position itself for NCAA Tournament consideration and is eager for a significant win to boost its chances for March Madness.
In their previous encounter, the Blue Devils secured an 87-70 victory, but the Tar Heels have since hit their stride, winning six consecutive games. With the stakes high and momentum shifting, can UNC turn the tide and overcome its fiercest rival, or will the Blue Devils spoil any #2 Duke vs. North Carolina predictions made backing the Tar Heels?
Duke Blue Devils: Quest For A Championship
Duke has been on a remarkable journey this season, proving to be a formidable force on both offense and defense. With an impressive average of 83.5 points per game and a stifling defense that concedes only 61.1 points per game, the Blue Devils have certainly caught the attention of their rivals.
Spearheaded by the exceptional guard Cooper Flagg, who averages 19.6 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, Duke has celebrated several commanding victories, including a stunning 100-65 win against Florida State and a solid 87-70 triumph over their arch-nemesis, UNC.
Although they faced a setback against Clemson, it serves as a reminder that the road to March will be challenging. Nevertheless, this team is well-equipped for a significant tournament run.
North Carolina Tar Heels: Too Many Costly Slip-Ups
North Carolina has been a tale of two teams this season – unstoppable on some nights and vulnerable on others. The Tar Heels' high-powered offense (82.1 PPG) has propelled them to big wins, like their 97-73 thrashing of NC State.
However, defensive struggles (75.9 PPG allowed) and inconsistent shooting have led to unexpected losses, including a stunning 65-85 defeat at Clemson. R.J. Davis (17.2 PPG) has been a steady force, but UNC must tighten up if they want to make noise in March.
#2 Duke vs. North Carolina Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines
Bet365 Sportsbook promptly published the #2 Duke vs. North Carolina odds and lines for the matchup upon the announcement of the game, and the current figures are as follows:
- Duke Blue Devils (-615) vs. North Carolina Tar Heels (+475)
- Spread: Duke -10.5 (-110) vs. North Carolina +10.5 (-110)
- Game Total: Over 157.5 (-110) vs. Under 157.5 (-110)
#2 Duke vs. North Carolina Spread Pick: Tar Heels +10.5 (-110 at Bet365)
When looking to make #2 Duke vs. North Carolina predictions, it’s worth noting that UNC is hitting their stride at just the right moment, having won five consecutive games by double digits and averaging an impressive 91.4 points per game during this stretch.
Their offense is firing on all cylinders, and history shows that rivalry matchups like this often end up being closer than anticipated. While Duke boasts a strong defense, allowing only 61.1 points per game (ranking 6th nationally), UNC's high-tempo style could keep the game within reach.
Given their recent performance and the intensity of this rivalry, a +10.5 spread feels excessive. Look for UNC to battle hard until the very end, making Tar Heels +10.5 (-110 at Bet365) the best of our #2 Duke vs. North Carolina predictions.
#2 Duke vs. North Carolina Injury Report & Starting Lineup
Duke Blue Devils Injury Report
- M. Brown (F) – Questionable: Shoulder
Duke Blue Devils Projected Starters
- S. James (G) – (8.2 PPG, 42.6% 3PT%)
- T. Proctor (G) – (11.8 PPG, 39.9% 3PT%)
- K. Knueppel (G) – (13.6 PPG, 3.9 RPG)
- C. Flagg (G) – (19.6 PPG, 7.5 RPG)
- K. Maluach (C) – (8.2 PPG, 6.5 RPG)
North Carolina Tar Heels Injury Report
- None
North Carolina Tar Heels Projected Starters
- J. Withers (F) – (6 PPG, 45.6% 3PT%)
- R. Davis (G) – (17.2 PPG, 3.8 APG)
- V. Lubin (F) – (7.7 PPG, 5.1 RPG)
- E. Cadeau (G) – (9.7 PPG, 6.1 APG)
- D. Powell (G) – (7.5 PPG, 3.4 RPG)
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