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Expert Picks
On the talent scale, Syracuse might be a shadow of its former self, but the trademark 2-3 zone defense remains. It induced Duke into 19 percent shooting on threes in the NCAA Tournament matchup last season and has led to a 4-1 Under trend with meetings in Durham. The Blue Devils can defend, too; their efficiency rating is No. 3 in the nation. Forward Zion Williamson still might be affected from the eye poke that cut short his day on Saturday. He departed in the first half, never to return.
Duke is obviously one of the most talented teams in the country, and there's a reason this spread is so large, even if it's a bit surprising. I do think it's a little too large, however, as Syracuse could pose some problems for the Dukies. Cuse's zone may force Duke to be more reliant on its outside shooting in this game, and Duke is not a strong three-point shooting team. Syracuse's length should make life more difficult inside as well.