Three weeks ago, Virginia trounced Duke in a game the Cavaliers led 31-3 entering the fourth quarter. The win was the ninth over the Blue Devils in the last 10 meetings. UVA stands 8-4 ATS this season. If those numbers aren't persuasive enough, consider that WR Cam Ross and OLT McKale Boley were cleared to play Friday after their status was in doubt. The Cavs' calling card on offense is the ground game, which Duke is ineffective at stopping. Would have preferred a three-point spot given that Vrginia does not score much, but the hook is not a major concern.
The Cavaliers have played excellent offense this year, but their defensive efforts are the reason why they are in this position to punch their ticket to the postseason. Look for them to be able to get both key and timely stops against the Blue Devils offense en route to running into the postseason.
Duke's defense has been horrible for the last month, and that includes Virginia putting up 31 points against it earlier despite taking its foot off the gas in the fourth quarter. The Hoos should move the ball well here again, but I expect Duke's offense to find a bit more success too.
