Michigan State Spartans vs Duke Blue Devils Predictions

Duke’s early results explain the price

Duke University Athletics reported that the Blue Devils rank third in offensive efficiency and second in defensive efficiency at KenPom after opening 2-0. Duke also collected 53 rebounds and held Coastal Carolina to 30.2% shooting in a 113-52 win. Those numbers make Duke the likelier winner, but they came before its first game against a top-five opponent.

Patrick Ngongba II had 28 points and nine rebounds against Coastal Carolina, while Cayden Boozer finished with 11 points and 12 assists. Ball Durham, a Duke-focused publication, reported that forward Drew Scharnowski is expected to be available, although his playing time remains uncertain.

Michigan State brings proven ball movement

Michigan State University Athletics reported that Jeremy Fears Jr. is averaging 12.5 points and 10 assists through two wins. Jordan Scott has added 11.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and four assists per game. Their production gives the Spartans a way to challenge Duke’s defense, but Michigan State is also making its first road or neutral-site trip of the season.

Betting outlook

SportsPicksForum lists Duke at -285 and Michigan State at +230, with Duke favored by 6.5 points. The total is 147.5, with the over at -115 and the under at -105.

Wise Guy Team reports that Duke has received 69% of DraftKings spread tickets and 68% of the spread money. Those sportsbook-specific splits show support for the favorite, but they don’t make Duke worth laying 6.5 points. Both teams are 2-0 against lesser competition, and no official player-specific absence has been reported. Duke is the predicted winner, but the spread and total are passes because the evidence doesn’t support a wager.