The Duke Blue Devils are off to a great start this year, but how many games can they win?
The Duke Blue Devils have started the new season off 4-0, with the group clicking on all cylinders throughout the new year.
Duke is looking to repeat as ACC champions this year, despite many analysts not believing in them too much. But inside the Blue Devils locker room, there is a quiet confidence that has started to show on the field.
The Blue Devils have a bye week coming up, giving them some extra time to rest and prepare for their next game. This could be invaluable to the players and coaching staff, allowing them the opportunity to take everything in.
But as Duke gets ready for the post-bye-week schedule, how many games can this team actually win? Here is a breakdown of how the remainder of the season could go for the Blue Devils:
Week 6: at Georgia Tech
Coming off the bye, this could be a tough game, especially since Georgia Tech will also be off a bye. But the Yellow Jackets have struggled so far this year, and Duke should take care of business.
Week 7: vs North Carolina
Even in football, bragging rights are on the line between these two teams. Duke is a much better team, and they shouldn't have an issue with the Tar Heels.
Week 8: at Virginia
Virginia has started 3-1 this season, and when the teams meet up, it will be a rematch from the ACC title game last year. The Cavaliers may want some revenge, but Duke's running game should be able to do some damage in this game.
Week 9: vs Boston College
The Eagles could surprise the Blue Devils here, but Duke being the home team likely plays into this game. The Blue Devils may have a tight game, but they could be able to come away with the win.
Week 10: at NC State
This is a trap game for the Blue Devils. With a game against Miami looming, Duke will need to make sure that they stay the course here on the road.
Other than the Hurricanes, this is likely the toughest game for this team on the schedule.
Week 11: at Miami
This is the biggest game on the schedule, and could decide a lot for the Blue Devils. Miami will push this team, and this very well could be the first loss of the season for Duke.
Week 12: vs Clemson
Clemson has started to play much better in recent weeks since they were blown out in Week 1. But the Tigers are still a flawed team, and Duke should be able to take them down.
If the Blue Devils can keep the running game going strong, Clemson may have a lot of trouble defending them.
Week 13: at Wake Forest
Wake Forest is no pushover, having just knocked Louisville this past weekend. The Demon Deacons could give Duke a test, but the Blue Devils should be able to handle them.
However, with this being the final game of the season, Duke will need to be careful. There could be a chance for a potential ACC Championship Game appearance on the line here.
Final Prediction: Duke should be able to win 10 or 11 games given how they have started. There will be a few tough contests over the final weeks of the season, but this team could be in line for a possible playoff berth, depending on how everything plays out.
