Simulation Picks
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Maximize Your Odds of Winning with SportsLine Model and Our Top-Rated Picks!
Understanding Public and Money
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Expert Picks
There is some reasonable concern about Duke in this matchup since it isn't a great shooting team, and with a 7'6 behemoth clogging the lane for UCF, it could be hard for the Blue Devils to get all those baskets they tend to get around the rim. In the end, though, I think Duke's overall talent and athleticism will win out over 40 minutes, and they will force UCF out of their comfort zone offensively, allowing them to pull away.
Duke's pace has decreased from non-conference play to conference play to postseason play. Duke is 16-4 to the Under in its last 20 games. UCF plays at a very slow pace, 219th nationally. Their defense ranks 32nd and their offense, 55th. The Knights are 4-1 to the Under in their last five, 12-5 to the Under in their last 17 away from home. Duke will have the lead late and walk the ball upcourt the final five minutes.