Virginia Tech vs Duke Picks and Prediction – 11/24/2024

The Virginia Tech Hokies, standing at 5-5, travel to Durham to take on the Duke Blue Devils, who hold a 7-3 record. Both teams are coming off opposite results in the last outings, with Virginia Tech losing to Clemson, 24-14, and Duke claiming a 29-19 win over NC State. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

Virginia Tech's offense revolves around quarterback Kyron Drones, who averages 173.6 passing yards per game with 10 touchdowns and 6 interceptions this season. Bhayshul Tuten adds to the ground game, rushing for 950 yards and averaging 6.5 yards per carry, complemented by 12 touchdowns. The receiving corps, led by Stephen Gosnell, will need to step up against Duke’s secondary, especially with 19.3 yards per reception average. Offensively, the Hokies rank 140th nationally in total yardage (369.9 yards per game) and 203rd in scoring (29.1 points per game).

Defensively, the Hokies have been inconsistent and struggling in the secondary, which has hurt them against high-powered offenses. Ranked 116th in points allowed, they’ll need to improve against Duke's balanced attack. While the front seven can disrupt plays, Virginia Tech must maintain discipline against a Duke team that averages 237.3 passing yards per game.

The Duke Blue Devils are led by quarterback Maalik Murphy, who averages 236.6 passing yards per game with 22 touchdowns and 8 interceptions. Murphy has been well-supported by Jordan Moore, who has 42 receptions for 632 yards and 6 touchdowns. However, Duke’s rushing offense ranks a lowly 248th nationally at 99.6 yards per game, putting pressure on the aerial game to perform. Overall, the Blue Devils average 336.9 total yards and rank 165th in scoring offense.

Defensively, Duke has been slightly more robust than Virginia Tech. The secondary has been a bright spot, limiting opponents effectively in recent games, as evidenced by the key win over NC State. With a strong showing from the linebackers, the Blue Devils have managed to apply consistent pressure, making it difficult for opponents to sustain drives.

Duke’s passing game and stronger defensive record should give them the edge at home. Virginia Tech’s offensive inconsistencies combined with a vulnerable defense make it challenging for them to match up against a balanced Duke team. Final Score Prediction: Duke Blue Devils win and cover 31-20.