We are back with Week 5 Duke Football Bowl Projections from Brian of Duke Football Talk and Freddie of Duke Report. Check out where we think Duke Football is headed. Brian Kennedy of Duke Football Talk Duke fans, we have arrived! It is rivalry week. Duke is coming off a convincing win against Middle Tennessee, while CHC looked down right ugly against James Madison. With the win, Duke has moved to 4-0, and has gone undefeated in Non-Conference play for the first time since 2018. You want to know what else happened in 2018? That was the last time that Duke had possession of the Victory Bell after Daniel Jones ran all over the Tar Heels in convincing fashion. The way things are lining up, I feel this is the year that the Bell stays in Durham. As far as my bowl prediction goes, I am holding steady with Duke staying in Charlotte for the Dukes Mayo Bowl the time being. Also, shoutout to Brett McMurphy of Action Network, who clearly reads this article weekly as he also had the Blue Devils playing in Charlotte. The ACC continues to ooze "Coastal Chaos" and Duke is within reach of being within the top 5. A win this upcoming weekend, and things get a lot more interesting. First things first though, Duke needs to handle business this Saturday afternoon, raise hell and RING THAT BELL! Freddie Hodges of Duke Report Duke continued its impressive start to the season with a decisive 45-17 victory over Middle Tennessee State, finishing non-conference play undefeated at 4-0. The Blue Devils are now just two wins away from securing bowl eligibility. The long-awaited rivalry week has arrived as North Carolina comes to Durham to battle Duke for the coveted Victory Bell. The last time the Blue Devils held the Bell was in 2018, but there’s a strong sense that this year could finally see it return to Durham. Duke enters the game with momentum after a commanding win, while UNC is reeling from a blowout loss to James Madison. However, if the past two rivalry games have taught us anything, it’s that anything can happen when these teams meet. The ACC’s infamous "Coastal Chaos" is alive and well. Florida State finally won a game—who would've thought lol? Meanwhile, Virginia Tech, a team I had high hopes for, continues to falter, now sitting at 2-2. With so many twists and turns, predicting the outcome of this unpredictable conference remains a challenge. Since Week 1, I’ve projected Duke to play in the Gasparilla Bowl, but after their convincing performance against Middle Tennessee State, I’m moving them up the bowl calendar. I now see Duke heading north to play in the Bad Boy Mowers Pinstripe Bowl. Of course, a strong showing against North Carolina this weekend, followed by a solid start to ACC play, could have me rethinking my projection again soon. Be sure to check back here at Blue Devils Blog every week for our latest bowl projections. With ACC play starting up there’s plenty of potential for these projections to shift. We’ll keep you updated as the season unfolds!
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QUICK THOUGHTS This Saturday, Wallace Wade Stadium will be the battleground as the Blue Devils and Tar Heels face off at 4 p.m., with the coveted Victory Bell at stake. Duke enters the clash with confidence after a commanding victory over Middle Tennessee State. Meanwhile, UNC limps into Durham, reeling from an unexpected blowout loss to James Madison. The stage is set for a fierce showdown as both teams look to make a statement in this rivalry. The stakes couldn’t be higher as Duke aims to break a frustrating five-game losing streak to its archrival and kick off ACC play with a statement win. A victory would not only bring the Victory Bell back to its rightful place in Durham but also put the Blue Devils just one win away from bowl eligibility. It’s more than just a rivalry game—it’s a chance for Duke to make a strong early push in the ACC and set the tone for the rest of the season. SCORE PREDICTION
Duke is currently favored at home by 2.5 points, with an Over/Under set at 55.5. I expect the Blue Devils to maintain their offensive momentum, leaning on the ground game with Star Thomas and (if healthy) Jaquez Moore, while also keeping UNC's defense on its heels through the air. With Duke’s defense playing at a high level, I’m taking the Under in this matchup. I see the Blue Devils keeping the Victory Bell right where it belongs and sending Carolina back to Hell. DUKE 31 NORTH CAROLINA 20 Duke basketball faces a challenging schedule this season, ensuring the Blue Devils will be battle-tested and ready for March Madness. From high-profile home and away games to blockbuster matchups on neutral courts, the regular season is packed with fierce competition. Below, you'll find Duke Report's top 10 can't-miss showdowns, listed in the order they appear on the season schedule. #1 Duke vs Kentucky - Champions Classic - State Farm Arena - Atlanta, Georgia - 11/12/24 Even with Coach Cal moving from Kentucky to take the helm at Arkansas, this game still promises to be a classic blue bloods battle. Duke holds a 3-1 record against Kentucky in this iconic event, but you can bet the Wildcats, now led by new head coach Mark Pope, will be out for revenge. This matchup has all the makings of a top-25 showdown. #2 Duke vs Arizona - McKale Memorial Center - Tucson, Arizona - 11/22/24 Last season, Caleb Love and his squad shocked Duke with a win at Cameron Indoor Stadium, so you can bet Blue Devil fans are eager to return the favor by giving Love a taste of defeat in his fifth and final college season. This game is shaping up to be a top-10 matchup, or at the very least a top-25 clash, and it’s bound to bring plenty of intensity. #3 Duke vs Kansas - T-Mobile Arena - Las Vegas, Nevada - 11/26/24 Just four days later, Duke hits the road again for another marquee game, this time taking on Kansas in the 2024 Vegas Showdown at T-Mobile Arena. This neutral-court clash in Las Vegas has the potential to be a top-5 matchup, and if it’s anything like Duke’s thrilling win over Gonzaga in Vegas back in 2021, fans are in for a treat. Expect the Blue Devil faithful to show up in force, ready to paint Sin City blue. #4 Duke vs Auburn - ACC/SEC Challenge - Cameron Indoor Stadium - Durham, North Carolina - 12/4/24 December kicks off with a bang as Duke takes on Auburn at Cameron Indoor Stadium in the ACC/SEC Challenge. With Bruce Pearl prowling the sidelines and the Cameron Crazies bringing their A-game, this showdown has top-10 potential written all over it. #5 Duke vs Pittsburgh - Cameron Indoor Stadium - Durham, North Carolina - 1/7/25 Pittsburgh pulled off the upset over Duke at Cameron Indoor Stadium last season, marking their first win there since 1979. Duke fans certainly remember when Pittsburgh's Blake Hinson jumped onto the press row tables and celebrated in front of the Cameron Crazies. It’s one thing to celebrate a win, especially at Cameron Indoor, but it’s another to taunt the Crazies in that fashion. When Pitt returns to town this season (even with Hinson gone and currently testing free agency in the NBA), the Cameron Crazies will not have forgotten. Expect them to bring their A-game as Duke looks to avenge last season’s loss. #6 Duke vs NC State - Cameron Indoor Stadium - Durham, North Carolina - 1/27/25 NC State and Duke squared off three times last season in March. Duke won the regular-season matchup on the road, but NC State secured the two most memorable victories: first in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals in Washington, DC, and then in the Elite Eight in Dallas, ending Duke’s season. Whether NC State is ranked or not, this game makes my top 10 because I expect Duke and the Cameron Crazies to be seeking revenge in this home game at Cameron Indoor Stadium. #7 Duke vs North Carolina - Cameron Indoor Stadium - Durham, North Carolina - 2/1/25 This rivalry game needs no introduction—it's one of the biggest, if not the biggest, rivalries in all of sports. Last season, the Tar Heels swept the Blue Devils, winning both in Chapel Hill in February and at Cameron Indoor Stadium in the regular season's final game. I remember seeing Cooper Flagg walk off the court at Cameron last March (I snapped the photo below) as he witnessed the Blue Devils' home loss. The first of the two-game regular season series returns to Cameron Indoor Stadium. Blue Devil fans, the Cameron Crazies, and Cooper Flagg and company will be eager to turn the tide, aiming for a home victory in this epic rivalry and sending Carolina back to Hell. #8 Duke vs Virginia - John Paul Jones Arena - Charlottesville, Virginia - 2/17/25 Although Duke didn’t play in Charlottesville last season, their past battles at John Paul Jones Arena have been nothing short of epic. From Tyus Jones’ clutch three-pointer in 2015 to Zion Williamson’s jaw-dropping block on De’Andre Hunter in 2019—sending the ball into the stands and possibly beyond downtown Charlottesville—these games are etched in history. Rankings don’t matter when these two teams clash, and you can count on the UVA fanbase to bring their A-game. When Duke rolls into town, expect another thrilling showdown filled with intensity and unforgettable moments. #9 Duke vs Illinois - Madison Square Garden - New York, NY - 2/22/25 A mid-season non-conference clash against Illinois at Cameron North... I mean Madison Square Garden on February 22nd will shake things up in the midst of ACC play. This neutral-court matchup provides a valuable test against a potential NCAA Tournament team, just weeks before the big dance kicks off. #10 Duke vs North Carolina - Dean Smith Center - Chapel Hill, North Carolina - 3/8/25 Duke will wrap up the regular season with a highly anticipated rematch against North Carolina in Chapel Hill. This game has all the makings of a top-10 showdown, if not a top-25 clash. With ESPN’s College GameDay likely setting up shop at Chapel Hill for this fierce rivalry, there could be significant stakes on the line, including ACC Tournament seeding and NCAA Tournament positioning. The Duke players and fans will be eager to return the favor and complete a regular-season sweep of UNC, aiming to end on a high note as they gear up for tournament play. Duke will play 10 games out of its 31 regular season games against NCAA Tournament teams from last season. (Kentucky - 1, Arizona - 1, Kansas - 1, Auburn - 1, Illinois - 1, Clemson -1, NC State -1, Virginia -1, North Carolina -2. Duke will play 3 games against teams from the Elite 8 last season. Illinois -1, NC State -1, and Clemson -1. Duke will play 1 game against a team from the Final Four last season. NC State -1. Did I miss a top game? What game or game(s) are you looking forward to? Reply in the blog and/or let us know on Twitter @DukeReport Now bring on the college basketball season! The third season of the Jon Scheyer era of Duke Basketball kicks off with a bang at the 2024 Countdown to Craziness on October 4th. This annual spectacle is more than just a basketball scrimmage—it’s a full-blown celebration that sets the stage for the upcoming season. As we gear up for another thrilling year, let’s take a look back at some of the most unforgettable moments from Countdown to Craziness over the years. This isn’t your typical preseason event. Countdown to Craziness has evolved into a high-energy showcase featuring electrifying player introductions, heart-pounding music, and jaw-dropping performances. It's Duke’s answer to midnight madness, a tradition that dates back to 1971 when then-Maryland coach and former Duke basketball player Lefty Driesell invited fans to a late-night team run. The concept took off, and by 1982, Kentucky had raised the stakes by including entertainment acts in their midnight madness event. Soon, other colleges caught on, and midnight madness events became a staple of college basketball culture. ESPN, recognizing the growing popularity, has even broadcast special shows highlighting these events, complete with live commentary from select campuses, building hype for the upcoming season. Duke Basketball will hold its 15th annual Countdown to Craziness on Friday, October 4th, and the excitement is already brewing. Over the years, this event has featured skits that leave fans laughing, contests that get the crowd involved, and of course, the grand introduction of the Duke Basketball team poster. But the highlight is the blue/white team scrimmage, where fans get a first glimpse of the players in action. Countdown to Craziness is the ultimate fan experience. It’s not just about basketball; it’s about the community, the camaraderie, and the shared passion for Duke Basketball. Over the years, I’ve made countless memories and met fellow Duke fans who have become lifelong friends. I’ve had the privilege of attending every Countdown to Craziness (except last year 2023) since its inception in 2009, as well as the 2008 Blue-White Scrimmage, and each year the event gets bigger, better, and more exhilarating. As we count down the days to this year’s Countdown to Craziness, let’s relive some of the greatest highlights and experiences that have made this event a cornerstone of Duke Basketball culture. Whether it’s the anticipation of seeing the new roster, the electrifying atmosphere inside Cameron Indoor Stadium, or the unforgettable moments that bring us all together, one thing is certain: Countdown to Craziness is where Duke Basketball’s magic begins. Crossing the Lines: Duke Basketball and Football's 2008 Collaboration In 2008, Duke's Blue-White Scrimmage was a thrilling spectacle for fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming season. The scrimmage kicked off with an electric atmosphere, as both teams started with the score tied at 45-45. The White team, powered by standout players like Gerald Henderson, Kyle Singler, and Jon Scheyer, dominated the first half with an impressive 97-74 victory. A standout moment of the event was the Duke Blue Devils football team's ceremonial Blue Devil Walk but happening in Cameron Indoor Stadium. Under the leadership of first-year head coach David Cutcliffe, the football squad took a break from their own preparations to shake hands with the basketball stars and Coach K. This unique crossover was a powerful display of camaraderie and set the stage for Cutcliffe's transformative impact on Duke football. His leadership would soon propel the team to new heights, with the program making waves in the ACC Coastal division and securing bowl victories. The excitement continued into the second scrimmage, where the Blue team, spearheaded by Nolan Smith, claimed victory with a close 79-70 win over the White team. The scrimmage showcased the talent and competitiveness of Duke basketball. 2009: The Dawn of the CTC Era In 2009, Duke’s Countdown to Craziness (CTC) kicked off with a bang, transforming the Blue-White Scrimmage into an all-out celebration. The festivities started early in Krzyzewskiville with a vibrant mix of live music, games, and face painting, creating an electric atmosphere before Cameron Indoor Stadium even opened its doors. Once inside, fans were treated to an array of exhilarating events, including dynamic video showcases, thrilling contests, and captivating performances. The anticipation reached a fever pitch with the reveal of the 2009-2010 Duke Basketball poster, and the dunk contest quickly became a crowd favorite, showcasing jaw-dropping athleticism and flair. As the inaugural CTC unfolded, the excitement was awesome. The sense of unity among fans, players, and coaches made me feel like I was the "6th man," fully immersed in a spectacular event that set the stage for a memorable basketball season. 2010: A Banner Year! Photo via Duke Basketball One moment from 2010 that stands out vividly is the unforgettable unveiling of Duke Basketball’s 4th national championship banner at Cameron Indoor Stadium. Witnessing that historic event in person was nothing short of electrifying—an experience etched in my memory forever. Almost equally thrilling was that year’s dunk contest, where Kyrie Irving delivered a jaw-dropping slam that nearly made judge Jason Williams fall out of his seat! The sheer energy of that moment I captured in a video that’s now amassed over 462,000 views on Youtube, thrilling not just Blue Devils fans, but also NBA fans from the Cavaliers, Celtics, Nets, and Mavericks. It’s a dunk that was a highlight of an incredible CTC. 2011: The Spectacular Banner Unveiling 2011’s Countdown to Craziness was a blast, but the true standout moment was the dramatic Nike “Duke Basketball Never Stops” banner reveal. The scene was pure spectacle: the banner, starting from mid-court, unfurled as people sprinted in every direction, stretching it across the entire length of the court. The energy of the moment was simply unforgettable, making it one of my all-time favorite CTC experiences. I loved it so much that I even bought a canvas wrap of the event, which proudly hangs in my home as a testament to that incredible night. 2012: Behind the Curtain The highlight of 2012 for me was when Duke unveiled a massive white curtain that stretched from the ceiling of Cameron Indoor Stadium all the way to the floor. The curtain was adorned with images of Duke players and iconic moments from Duke Basketball. As the player introductions concluded, the curtain dramatically dropped, and the players emerged from underneath, setting the stage for an electrifying game. 2013: Coach K Court Comes to Life The highlight of 2013 for me was when Duke transformed Coach K Court into a dynamic video display for player introductions. I left the event in awe, amazed by how they used the court in such an innovative and unique way. 2014: The Team Surprises the Crowd 2014 was another incredible experience. Once again, Duke utilized Coach K Court to display captivating video footage. The highlight came when the Duke Basketball players unexpectedly appeared at the upper-level entrances of Cameron Indoor Stadium, catching fans completely by surprise. The video footage on the court, featuring the four national championship banners, added to the excitement and made the event truly unforgettable. 2015: DE5TINY As expected, the 2015 Countdown to Craziness was unforgettable. The main highlight was when Duke Basketball raised its fifth national championship banner into the rafters of Cameron Indoor Stadium, solidifying a moment of pride and celebration for all the fans. Duke continued using Coach K Court to showcase player introductions and the team poster, adding a dynamic visual element to the event. 2016: Elevating the Coach K Court Experience Just when you thought Duke Basketball couldn't enhance their already spectacular Countdown to Craziness introductions with the court video graphics display, they found a way to make the experience even more unforgettable by involving the fans. Before the event began, fans were handed Blue Devil horns that lit up in the dark. When the lights went out and the introductions started, Cameron Indoor Stadium was illuminated like never before, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. Another standout moment that fans will always remember was Chase Jeter's bottle flip intro. He pulled off the trick perfectly, sending both the players and the fans in Cameron into a frenzy. 2017: Everytime We Touch Duke Basketball continued the tradition of handing out Blue Devil horns to fans before Countdown to Craziness, creating another spectacular light show as the lights went out and Cameron Indoor Stadium was illuminated in a dazzling display. The highlight of the event was Grayson Allen’s intro. The senior made a grand entrance to the song “Everytime We Touch,” a fan favorite often heard in Cameron. The crowd went wild, and Allen’s energetic introduction set the stage for an exciting event. 2018: The 4-Sided Jumbo Curtain and the Zion Effect In 2018, one of the standout moments was Duke Basketball's use of a 4-sided jumbo curtain at center court, reminiscent of the 2012 setup. This curtain was used to display impressive images of players, coaches, and Duke Basketball highlights. Another major highlight was the Zion Effect. Zion Williamson led the white team to victory over the blue team, finishing with a remarkable 7-of-11 shooting performance, including 5 highlight-reel dunks. This game provided fans with a thrilling preview of a season where Zion consistently wowed with his gravity-defying plays. 2019: We are the Brotherhood In 2019, Duke basketball revived the iconic four-sided jumbo curtain, featuring the Brotherhood logo for the first time. The display included impactful statements from former players like “You do not have to like us,” “You don’t have to understand us,” “But you can’t stop us,” “Once a Blue Devil, always a Blue Devil,” and “We are champions,” along with memorable moments from Duke's basketball history. The curtain then showcased Coach K, declaring “We are the Brotherhood,” followed by images of the 2019 team and Coach K stating, “Here comes Duke.” The Brotherhood effect elevated the curtain display to new heights. A touching highlight of the night was when Tre Jones brought his mother, Debbie, onto the court during his introduction. Having triumphed over cancer earlier in the year, her presence was a deeply meaningful moment for Duke fans. 2021: Coach K’s Last Ride Coach Mike Krzyzewski's final season, "The Last Ride," began with a spectacular Countdown to Craziness event on October 15, 2021. This was Coach K's farewell season at the helm of Duke men's basketball, and the anticipation for this CTC was at an all-time high, especially since it marked the return of fans to Cameron Indoor Stadium after over a year. The atmosphere was electric, and what stood out most from this event was the overwhelming joy of the fans being back in the stands. I captured some of that vibrant energy in the video below, featuring Duke's rousing performance of "Everytime We Touch." Duke once again utilized the four-sided jumbo curtain to celebrate Coach K’s illustrious career. The display featured a series of memorable moments from Coach K's tenure, highlighting his numerous achievements and iconic moments in Duke basketball history. 2022: Jon Scheyer's Era Begins as Duke Basketball Head Coach What stands out most from the 2022 Countdown to Craziness is Jon Scheyer forging a strong connection with the Duke fan base as he began his tenure as head coach. The event featured the drop-down curtain once more, showcasing a dynamic array of graphics that included iconic plays, Coach K, Jon Scheyer, the Blue Devil, and current players. The Cameron Crazies erupted with cheers as Jon Scheyer was introduced as the new head coach, marking the start of an exciting new chapter for Duke basketball. Another unforgettable moment for Duke fans came when Stanley Borden stole the show with his introduction. Dressed in a trench coat, he took the stage, dramatically opened his coat, and revealed a saxophone. He then performed a memorable solo of George Michael's "Careless Whisper," adding a unique and personal touch to the event. Jon Scheyer wrapped up the night at Countdown to Craziness with a heartfelt message to the Crazies and fans in attendance, saying, "We're in this together." His words underscored the unity and shared excitement as he began his journey as Duke's head coach. 2023: Year Two Under Scheyer as Countdown to Craziness and the Fan Experience Thrives” This year marked the first Countdown to Craziness I couldn't attend in person since its inception several years ago. Fortunately, I caught up with a good buddy of mine, an OG Duke fan we call "Show," who filled me in on the highlights. Side note: If you're a true Blue Devil enthusiast, make sure to check out the Duke Blue Brotherhood message board that Show runs. It's a haven for diehard Duke fans with insights dating back to the pre-Coach K era. Duke Blue Brotherhood One of the standout changes this year was the team introduction. Instead of the usual setup, they unveiled a four-curtain format at each corner of the court, adding a fresh twist. Despite this change, one thing has always remained constant: the incredible family atmosphere that unites the fans, players, and coaches. Show mentioned how his daughter had the chance to high-five the players as they exited Cameron Indoor—just another example of what makes Countdown to Craziness such a unique and memorable experience. 2024 and BeyondWhat will the 2024 Countdown to Craziness hold for Duke fans as Jon Scheyer leads the Blue Devils into his third season? The anticipation for this year’s epic introduction is already building.
One thing is certain: Cameron Indoor Stadium will be buzzing with excitement as the Cameron Crazies come together once again. These highlights and memories are just a glimpse of the excitement that CTC has delivered since its inception in 2009. What’s your favorite highlight or memory from Countdown to Craziness? Share your thoughts in the blog and let us know on Twitter @DukeReport QUICK THOUGHTS
For the past two weeks, Duke football has rallied from fourth-quarter deficits to secure victories. Now, Duke aims to finish non-conference play undefeated as they travel to Murfreesboro, Tennessee, for a 4 PM Eastern kickoff against Middle Tennessee State. The Blue Raiders (1-2) are also led by a first-year head coach, similar to Duke. Interestingly, this will be the first time Middle Tennessee's Derek Mason and Duke's Manny Diaz face off, despite both being in their second stints as head coaches. Another interesting storyline involves Duke’s coaching staff, with three members returning to familiar territory. Head coach Manny Diaz previously served as Middle Tennessee’s defensive coordinator and safeties coach (2006-07) and later as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach (2008-09). Tight ends coach Justin Watts was Middle Tennessee’s recruiting coordinator and wide receivers coach (2006-14). Running backs coach Willie Simmons also coached at Middle Tennessee, working as running backs coach (2007-09) and later offensive coordinator and pass game coordinator. SCORE PREDICTION Duke heads into Saturday’s matchup as a 14.5-point favorite, with the Over/Under set at 51.5 points. What stands out so far? Duke has scored exactly 26 points in each of its first three games, a sign of consistency, but perhaps also of untapped offensive potential. After back-to-back fourth-quarter comebacks, this road game presents a perfect opportunity for the Blue Devils to flip the script—starting strong, setting the offensive tone early, and building a lead they can hold onto. I expect Duke’s offense to find another gear and break away from that 26-point threshold. With that in mind, I’m taking the Under for total points, but I see Duke putting up 34 points of their own. The defense, which has been a strength, should handle Middle Tennessee State, limiting them to just 13 points. This is the kind of game where Duke can control both sides of the ball and send a message moving forward as ACC play is up next. DUKE 34 MIDDLE TENNESSEE STATE 13 We are back with Week 4 Duke Football Bowl Projections from Brian of Duke Football Talk and Freddie of Duke Report. Check out where we think Duke Football is headed. Brian Kennedy of Duke Football Talk Another week, and another gritty win by your Duke Blue Devils football team. I am not going to lie, I let my guard down, and thought this past weekend's game against UCONN was going to be a Sunday drive. Boy was I wrong. Just when things looked in hand, UCONN scored on a fluke pick 6, and turned the tide until the 4th quarter. Luckily, Duke was able to calm down, rebound, and get their 3rd straight win of the season to move to 3-0. Now Duke heads to the land of BBQ, Cowboy boots and country music, as they take on a Middle Tennessee defense who has had many a struggle so far this year. I don't see that changing, and am looking for Duke to go 4-0 heading into rivalry week against CHC. Not trying to look too far ahead, because as the first 3 weeks have shown fans anything is possible on the gridiron. As far as my bowl projection goes, I have the team staying put in Charlotte, and playing in the Duke's Mayo Bowl. If the coming weeks play out in Duke's favor, the destination will most certainly be changing for me. Freddie Hodges of Duke Report Duke entered last Saturday's game against UConn as the heavy favorite, and for a moment, it looked like the Blue Devils would cruise to victory. However, the tides quickly turned when UConn went on a stunning 21-0 run, taking a 21-17 lead into the fourth quarter. Duke fans watched nervously as the game slipped into dangerous territory, but the Blue Devils made a comeback to secure a 26-21 victory. While the win keeps Duke undefeated at 3-0, it was far from a comfortable win. Once again, Duke football found a way to prevail, but consistency will be key as they head on the road to face Middle Tennessee State this Saturday. The ACC, even without divisions, is delivering its usual dose of "Coastal Chaos." Florida State has stumbled to an 0-3 start. One could jokingly ask: Is FSU holding out on winning until the ACC lets them out of their conference contract? But in all seriousness, the Seminoles might want to focus on climbing out of the basement of the ACC standings before worrying about their exit strategy. Duke’s schedule is filled with other teams underperforming so far, including NC State and Virginia Tech. Preseason predictions I once marked as losses for Duke are now up in the air. Yet, with ACC play around the corner, Duke must find consistency on offense to navigate a progressively tougher schedule. Since Week 1, my bowl projection for Duke has remained steady. Even if Duke had lost to UConn, I would still have predicted them in a bowl game — likely the Boca Raton Bowl in Florida. Had Duke won more decisively, I might have upgraded them to a later bowl game. However, with their comeback victory, my current projection still sends the Blue Devils south to Tampa for the Gasparilla Bowl. That said, a convincing performance against Middle Tennessee State this weekend could start to shift that outlook. Be sure to check back here at Blue Devils Blog every week for our latest bowl projections. With the next two games on the schedule (vs. Middle Tennessee State and rival UNC), there’s plenty of potential for these projections to shift. We’ll keep you updated as the season unfolds!
We are back with Week 3 Duke Football Bowl Projections from Brian of Duke Football Talk and Freddie of Duke Report. Check out where we think Duke Football is headed. Brian Kennedy of Duke Football Talk Well Duke fans, I am still trying to recover from last Friday night's epic 26-20 Duke win over Northwestern. Not from all the excitement per se, but because I had to stay up until 1am, and felt like I got hit by a truck Saturday. But it was all worth it. This is a gutsy Duke team, and Friday night's result showed they are still growing, but also still fighting to the very end. Now Duke returns home to play a UCONN team this Saturday night that is somewhat of an anomaly as they were smoked by Maryland week 1, and then beat the brakes off FCS Independent Merrimack. Add in that the ACC continues to be a headscratcher. Your top 5 in the ACC currently as things stand are BC, Syracuse, UVA, GT and Cal. (Bet you didn't have that on your "Things I would see in the ACC this year" bingo card) The ACC is officially the Atlantic "Coastal" Conference, as it would appear anything is possible this year. Duke right now looks at a great chance to go 4-0 heading into ACC play. Yes, there is still this weekend and Middle Tennessee next weekend, but things are looking promising for the Devils. With everything that has happened this past week, the Devils are moving south for my projection, and headed to Bank of America stadium and the Duke's Mayo Bowl. This bowl has alluded Duke since their last appearance in 2012 and it is time the Devils played in state for their fans. Freddie Hodges of Duke Report Brian summed it up perfectly above. I’m still recovering from Duke’s double overtime win over Northwestern last Friday night. By the time the game ended and I scrolled through social media, it was well after 2 AM! It wasn’t always pretty—an ugly game at times with tough weather conditions on a temporary turf field set right beside Lake Michigan. In my opinion, this was a must-win for both teams to keep bowl eligibility within reach, especially with their schedules only getting tougher. Duke came away with an epic double overtime victory and now turns its focus to a home matchup with UConn this Saturday evening. UConn will be seeking revenge after last season’s blowout loss in East Hartford, but the Huskies come into this matchup as 16.5-point underdogs as they travel to Wallace Wade Stadium. The ACC may have done away with divisions, but "Coastal Chaos" is alive and well throughout the conference. Case in point: Florida State currently sits at the bottom of the standings with an 0-2 record. Duke has some areas to improve, particularly in the running game, but like Brian mentioned, I also see the Blue Devils potentially heading into ACC play with a 4-0 record. Their first conference matchup is against Chapel Hill College in late September. With several teams on Duke’s schedule falling short of preseason expectations, I see the "Coastal Chaos" continuing, and Duke could win games I had originally predicted them to lose. As a result, my Duke Football bowl projection might start shifting. For now, I’m holding steady with the Blue Devils heading south to sunny Tampa for the Gasparilla Bowl. However, a strong performance against UConn this weekend could begin to alter those expectations. Be sure to check back here at Blue Devils Blog every week for our latest bowl projections. With the next three games on the schedule (vs. UConn, vs. Middle Tennessee State, and vs. UNC), there’s plenty of potential for these projections to shift. We’ll keep you updated as the season unfolds!
QUICK THOUGHTS
Duke pulled off a thrilling comeback victory in Evanston, Illinois, last week, defeating Northwestern in double overtime at a temporary stadium set up along Lake Michigan. Now back in Durham, the Blue Devils are preparing for their second home game of the season with a 6 PM kickoff this Saturday at Wallace Wade Stadium against UConn. UConn comes into the matchup with momentum after a 63-17 blowout win over Merrimack, an FCS school, but the Huskies struggled in Week 1, suffering a 50-7 loss to Maryland. They'll likely be looking for redemption against Duke after last year’s 41-7 defeat, when the Blue Devils "Captured the Flagg" in East Hartford, Connecticut. Duke is expected to come out strong with their passing game but will need to focus on developing their run game as their schedule becomes increasingly challenging as the season progresses. SCORE PREDICTION As of now, Duke enters Saturday night’s matchup as a heavy favorite, with the spread set at -16.5 points and the Over/Under at 47.5. I expect the Blue Devils to come out firing through the air, but they will likely use this game as an opportunity to work on their run game. Defensively, I anticipate Duke will stifle UConn’s offense, limiting their scoring chances. With that in mind, I’m taking the over and predicting Duke will cover the spread in what promises to be an action-packed evening at Wallace Wade Stadium. DUKE 41 UCONN 13 A First Look: Experiencing Duke Football from the Devils Deck
On the Friday night of Labor Day weekend, I had the chance to check out the Duke vs. Elon game from a unique vantage point – not from the field, and not from the press box, but from the all-new Devils Deck. With family coming down from Virginia to join me, I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to try something different and immerse ourselves in the excitement of game day. If you're wondering what the Devils Deck experience is like, keep reading for a firsthand account. What Does It Cost? Tickets to the Devils Deck cost $45 if purchased ahead of game day or $55 if you grab them the day of. Knowing I’d have family with me, I secured our tickets early, and I’ve been asked the same question repeatedly since: Is it worth it? The answer is simple – absolutely! All-You-Can-Eat Experience The unlimited food and drink (non alcoholic) alone make the ticket price worth it. By the end of the night, I had indulged in two cheeseburgers, one hot dog, popcorn, three sodas, and a few waters. Had I bought all of that at a standard concession stand, it easily would have cost close to or over the $45 ticket price. Plus, they sweeten the deal with a cool Bull City Blue Devil koozie – a nice keepsake that adds to the overall value. Best Seat in the House For the best experience, my advice is to arrive when the deck opens and grab one of the chairback seats on the upper level. The Devils Deck offers a range of seating and standing options across both levels, and we spent most of the game enjoying a solid view from the top. From there, you can see both the action on the field and the lively tailgating scene below, complete with fans playing cornhole. A Social, Tailgate-Style Atmosphere It’s important to note that the Devils Deck offers more than just a spot to watch the game – it’s a full social experience with a tailgating vibe. You’re surrounded by fans enjoying food, drinks, and conversation. At one point, I had to remind myself that it’s not the best place for a pure football-watching experience, as a group behind me carried on a completely non-game-related conversation for almost an entire quarter. Pro Tip: If you’re there mainly for the game, consider moving between your seat and the deck as needed, rather than staying in the Deck the entire time. Plan Ahead for Popular Games If you’re thinking of buying tickets to the Devils Deck, be strategic about which game you choose. While there was plenty of room for the Elon game, expect more demand for bigger matchups like the UNC game in late September or the Florida State game in mid-October. It might be easier to snag tickets for games like this weekend’s UConn matchup. A Memorable Experience Overall, the Devils Deck offered a memorable experience for my family, blending the excitement of Duke football with a laid-back, tailgating atmosphere. With endless food, a unique viewing experience, and great company, it’s something we’ll be talking about for a while. For anyone wanting to check it out, the next opportunity comes this Saturday when Duke takes on UConn at 6:00 PM in their second home game of the season. If you’re looking for something new and exciting, the Devils Deck is definitely worth it. QUICK THOUGHTS Duke hits the road for its first away game of the season, traveling to Evanston, Illinois, to face Northwestern under the Friday night lights with a 9 PM kickoff (so grab your caffeine!). This will be the fourth consecutive matchup between the two teams, with Duke taking the win in the last three meetings. Northwestern, fresh off a 13-6 victory over Miami (OH), will look to flip the script as both teams enter the game at 1-0. Personally, I'd love to see a Northwestern field goal attempt go wide, catch some air, and splash into Lake Michigan! Okay, maybe that's a bit of a stretch, but possibly seeing the views of Chicago’s skyline and the lake during game breaks will definitely provide a stunning backdrop for what promises to be an exciting showdown. SCORE PREDICTION
As of now, Northwestern is a -2.5 favorite over Duke, with the over/under set at 37.5 points. I’m betting Duke comes out firing through the air, and fingers crossed we see some improvement in the run game. But with this temporary stadium perched right next to Lake Michigan, could the wind become a wild card—especially for the passing and kicking game? Who knows! Despite that, I’m taking the under and backing Duke to pull off the win and start the season 2-0. DUKE 24 NORTHWESTERN 10 |
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