Duke Blue Devils vs. Arkansas Razorbacks 11/29/23

Duke Blue Devils (5-1) vs. Arkansas Razorbacks (4-3)

The #5 Duke Blue Devils (5-1) take on the unranked Arkansas Razorbacks (4-3) in an inter-conference showdown on Wednesday night in college basketball action. In a matchup between these historic programs, our college basketball picks have the slight edge going to the visiting Blue Devils. With two hungry teams ready to battle, ACC and SEC fans are in for a treat tonight. Arkansas has a clear advantage in home court, but Duke’s talent across the board seems poised to overcome a hostile road environment.

The key to success for Duke this season has been their scoring balance, with all five starters averaging double figures. Kyle Filipowski leads the team at 18.8 points per game on an uber-efficient 56% shooting. Junior wing Jeremy Roach provides veteran leadership with 15 points and 5 assists per contest. The Blue Devils are also dominating the glass and protecting the rim at an elite level. Their +9 rebounding margin and 4.5 blocks per game both rank top five nationally. If Duke controls the paint and limits turnovers like they have all year, this sets up well for the visitors to leave Fayetteville with a win.

For the Razorbacks, guard Tramon Mark has been the lone bright spot during a disappointing start. Mark is averaging over 18 points on 55% from the field and 40% from three. His combination of shooting and playmaking could give the Duke defense some issues. However, Arkansas is getting demolished on the boards and allowing opponents to shoot a concerning 37% from beyond the arc. Unless the Razorbacks considerably improve their rebounding and perimeter defense, they’ll struggle to keep up with elite teams like Duke down the stretch.

Duke Blue Devils vs. Arkansas Razorbacks Game Info

When:	Wednesday, November 29, 2023 at 9:15 PM ET
Where:	Bud Walton Arena
TV:	ESPN
Stream:	Sofascore

Kyle Filipowski (Center) vs. Tramon Mark (Guard)

Towering center Kyle Filipowski has burst onto the scene for Duke as one of the best freshmen bigs in the country. In just six games, he’s averaging 19 points, 8 rebounds and 2 blocks on efficient shooting splits. The 7-footer will be a load to handle in the paint for Arkansas.

Razorback guard Tramon Mark has built off a strong sophomore season to lead Arkansas in scoring through seven contests. Although undersized, his quickness should help create space from Duke defenders. However, at just 6-foot-2, attempting to finish at the rim will be a major challenge against Duke’s frontcourt length.

This individual matchup will be determined by who can dictate their style of play. If Filipowski controls the glass and scoring area, Mark may be forced into tougher perimeter looks. But if Mark’s speed is too much to handle, it could lead to foul trouble for Duke against the SEC’s top free throw shooting team.

NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: Duke Blue Devils -210, Total Odds: 149

With Duke entering as a 4.5-point road favorite, the oddsmakers are showing respect for the Blue Devils’ strong start while also acknowledging Arkansas’ home court edge. The total is set at 149 points in what is projected to be a relatively high-scoring contest between two skilled offenses.

Duke Blue Devils Betting Trends

Duke’s recent form, with an 8-4 ATS in their last 12 games, indicates their consistency in covering the spread. Their strong SU record of 15-2 in the last 17 games underscores their ability to secure wins. However, bettors should note the trend of the total going UNDER in many of Duke’s recent games, especially on the road.

Arkansas Razorbacks Betting Trends

Conversely, Arkansas’s recent betting trends raise some concerns. Their 0-6 ATS in the last 6 games shows a struggle to cover the spread, a pattern that needs reversing. The OVER trend in their scoring, particularly at home, suggests their games tend to be high-scoring affairs. This could be key in considering the over/under bets.