NC State vs. Duke Predictions – Sunday, Mar. 31

Duke Blue Devils head coach Jon Scheyer talks to guard Jeremy Roach (3) in the second half against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at the Purcell Pavilion.
Image Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

The North Carolina State Wolfpack (22-14) are set to face off against the Duke Blue Devils (24-8) in a highly anticipated Elite Eight showdown. With a spot in the Final Four on the line, both teams are eager to extend their March Madness success in this ACC rivalry clash.

North Carolina State Wolfpack vs. Duke Blue Devils Odds Info

Moneyline: North Carolina State Wolfpack +250 (BetMGM) / Duke Blue Devils -300 (FanDuel)

Spread: -7.0 – North Carolina State Wolfpack -110 (PointsBet) / Duke Blue Devils -107 (BetRivers)

Total: 143.5 – -112 (BetRivers) / -105 (BetMGM)

Game Info

Date: Sunday, Mar. 31

Time: 04:05 PM

Location: American Airlines Center – Dallas, TX

TV: CBS

North Carolina State Wolfpack Betting Trends

  • On the road, North Carolina State Wolfpack are 4 and 7 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, North Carolina State Wolfpack are 17 and 18.
  • Against the spread on the road, North Carolina State Wolfpack are 8 and 8.

Duke Blue Devils Betting Trends

  • At home, Duke Blue Devils are 15 and 3 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Duke Blue Devils are 18 and 14.
  • Against the spread at home, Duke Blue Devils are 13 and 8.

North Carolina State Wolfpack vs. Duke Blue Devils Predictions

The Elite Eight stage of the NCAA Tournament brings an intriguing matchup as the surging North Carolina State Wolfpack take on a formidable Duke Blue Devils squad. NC State, riding an impressive wave of momentum, has won eight straight games, including a victory over Duke in the ACC Tournament. The Wolfpack’s resilience and ability to win in various ways have been the hallmark of their tournament run. With players like DJ Horne and D.J. Burns Jr. stepping up, NC State has shown they can compete with the best.

Duke, on the other hand, has been a model of consistency and talent, boasting a deep roster led by Kyle Filipowski and Jeremy Roach. The Blue Devils’ defense has been particularly stifling in the tournament, allowing an average of just 51.0 points per game, the best among all teams. Their ability to control the paint and perimeter has made them tough to beat. However, Duke’s offense will need to find ways to overcome NC State’s improved defense, which has been a key factor in the Wolfpack’s postseason success.

This game will likely hinge on key matchups, particularly the battle inside between NC State’s Burns and Duke’s Filipowski. Additionally, the guard play will be crucial, as both teams have players capable of taking over a game. With both teams familiar with each other’s playstyles, it will come down to execution and which team can impose their will. As the Wolfpack look to continue their Cinderella story, the Blue Devils aim to assert their dominance and return to the Final Four, setting the stage for a classic encounter.

North Carolina State Wolfpack vs. Duke Blue Devils Pick

The North Carolina State Wolfpack’s recent form and head-to-head success against the Duke Blue Devils make them an enticing pick for the moneyline bet. Despite being the underdog, NC State has demonstrated a remarkable ability to adapt and overcome challenges throughout the tournament. Their victory over Duke in the ACC Tournament is a testament to their capability to handle high-pressure situations and come out on top. With the Wolfpack’s defense tightening up and key players like DJ Horne and D.J. Burns Jr. making significant contributions, they have the momentum and confidence to upset the Blue Devils once again.

While Duke’s defense has been formidable, allowing only 51.0 points per game in the tournament, NC State’s improved defensive efforts have been equally impressive. The Wolfpack’s ability to limit second-chance points and control the pace of the game could neutralize Duke’s offensive threats. Additionally, the psychological edge of a recent win against Duke could play a role in NC State’s performance. Considering the attractive odds and the potential for a high-reward payout, the moneyline bet on the North Carolina State Wolfpack is a calculated risk worth taking in this Elite Eight showdown.

The Pick: North Carolina State Wolfpack +250 (BetMGM)