Duke Blue Devils vs
Northwestern WildcatsPredictions & Preview

Northwestern's Temporary Stadium with a View of Lake Michigan Set to Host Duke vs Northwestern Matchup Under Friday Night Lights

Northwestern's temporary football stadium offers a unique and picturesque setting for college football games, with a capacity of 12,000 and a view of Lake Michigan. In an upcoming matchup, two top academic schools, Duke and Northwestern, will face off in Week 2 under the Friday night lights. The game is set for a 7 PM CST kickoff on September 6 in Evanston, Illinois. Currently, Northwestern is favored to win by -2.5 points according to NCAAF betting picks.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Blue Devils +121 | Wildcats -142
• Spread: Blue Devils +2.5 (-110) | Wildcats -2.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 36.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Northwestern will win straight-up is 59%.

Duke vs Northwestern Stats

Duke Blue Devils

In Week 1, the Duke Blue Devils of the ACC defeated Elon Phoenix 26-3, falling just short of the point spread. The defense shined, tallying 8 sacks and allowing only 140 total yards to Elon. New head coach Manny Diaz made a strong debut, with quarterback Maalik Murphy standing out in the win. There are concerns about the rushing game and the turnover in the offensive line. The defense remains a strong point, continuing last year's excellence. Coach Diaz is looking forward to a tough matchup against Northwestern. Duke is currently ranked 29 in offense, 8 in defense, with a 1-0 record for the season.

Northwestern Wildcats Analysis

Northwestern's impressive 13-6 victory in their season opener showcased their dominant defense, limiting last season's MAC Champs, Miami (Ohio), to just two field goals. The defense held the RedHawks to only 267 total yards, with standout performances including 4 sacks and 2 interceptions. Senior quarterback Mike Wright led the offense, connecting on 60% of his passes for 178 yards, with senior receiver Bryce Kirtz being the primary target. Running back Cam Porter led the rushing game with 63 yards, while Wright added 65 rushing yards and a touchdown. The offense, though only scoring once, was efficient on third downs and the team's placekicker, Jack Olsen, had a solid performance with 2 out of 3 field goals made. Northwestern currently holds a power ranking of 61 and a 1-0 record, with Duke having struggled in their last three matchups against the Wildcats.

Duke Favored to Prevail in Defensive Battle Against Northwestern

The upcoming matchup between Duke and Northwestern is expected to be a defensive battle, with both teams heavily relying on their defensive units. Northwestern will be seeking redemption after a previous defeat against Duke, who have had the upper hand in recent matchups. Despite changes in the Duke lineup, they have managed to come out on top against Northwestern in the past. Northwestern's rushing attack will be crucial in their strategy against Duke, although Duke's defense has proven effective in limiting their opponents' rushing yards in the past. Duke's offense, led by quarterback Malik Murphy, has shown promise and has the capability to challenge Northwestern's defense. With Duke's potential to maintain a fast-paced tempo, they have the advantage and are likely to secure another victory in this upcoming game. It is recommended to consider backing Duke with the 3-point spread.

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