The only reason that Duke is not a premium play here is that they have yet to prove they can stop the run, but there are several reasons why I still like them and will be putting money on them on Saturday. For one there is value here when you look at the fact that Duke lost to Miami and Georgia Tech beat Miami. Oddsmaker's have adjusted the line accordingly, but I don't think that one game is a good indicator in predicting this game.
Duke was the pre-season favorites to win the Coastal and face Florida State in the ACC Championship, but now it's Georgia Tech's hype leading the way. Duke has had 2 weeks to hear about it and prepare for the triple option. If Duke was ever going to stop the triple option it's this year with 2 weeks to prepare and a defense returning 8 starters flush with talent in the back 7. It also is worth knowing that Georgia Tech has not stopped the run either allowing 5.46 ypc which is just what Duke likes to do averaging over 6 ypc. I expect a close game decided by a field goal. I give the edge to Duke, because of the extra time to prepare and they have been clutch on third down allowing just 29% conversions and now they face a team that is really predictable in their play calling.
