Duke Given Tough Prediction Ahead of Miami Showdown

The Duke Blue Devils will be taking on the Miami Hurricanes this week, giving the team a real challenge to overcome.

Duke will be entering the game with Miami with a record of of 7-2 on the season, with the Blue Devils going 4-2 in ACC play. This team has been tested all year, patiently waiting for a game like this on the schedule.

As for Miami, the Hurricanes finally dropped a game last week to the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, sending them to a 8-1 record. Miami has gone 6-0 in ACC games this season, with Duke trying to knock them off.

Both sides understand how crucial this contest will be, with the Hurricanes getting a slight edge due to the game being at home. But the Blue Devils have the talent to win the game, if they can execute throughout the 60 minutes.

College football analyst David Kenyon of Bleacher Report predicted the outcomes for games this weekend around the country. In his prediction for the Blue Devils and Hurricanes, Kenyon has Miami coming out on top by a score of 31-27.

Kenyon believes that the Hurricanes will be able to slow down the Duke running attack, which would be troublesome for the Blue Devils. Duke has relied heavily on its rushing game, with star running back Nate Sheppard leading the way.

Sheppard has been the engine for this Blue Devils attack this season, with his game helping others out. So far, Sheppard has rushed for 1,189 yards with 17 touchdowns on the ground, leading this offense.

But the running back has also helped out in the passing game, catching 36 passes for 306 yards and four touchdowns. Duke will be counting on another strong performance from Sheppard this week as they try to take down the Hurricanes.

If Miami is able to slow him down, the Blue Devils will then turn to quarterback Walker Eget to help win the game. Eget has thrown for 1,849 yards with 10 touchdowns and three interceptions over nine games.

Duke likes to use the passing game as a complement to the rushing attack, so the hope is that Sheppard can pull through against Miami. The Blue Devils won the ACC a year ago, and this will be the team's chance to prove themselves against a top opponent.

Kickoff for the game between Duke and Miami is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. PT/12:00 p.m ET from Hard Rock Stadium.