NCAA Basketball Kentucky Wildcats vs Duke Blue Devils: Tips and Predictions 11-12-24

The second game of the State Farm Champions Classic will pit #7 Duke Blue Devils (2-0) and #23 Kentucky Wildcats (2-0), who met previously in 2021’s Champions Classic, with Duke emerging victorious by eight. Duke recently breezed by Army 100-58 as an easy favorite, covering the 33.5 points; Kentucky beat Bucknell 100-72 as a favorite, just missing its cover as a 28.5-point home favorite. Both teams will tip off at 9:00 ET from Atlanta’s State Farm Arena.

Duke Blue Devils vs Kentucky Wildcats

• Point Spread: Duke -6.5
• Moneyline Duke -250
• Moneyline Kentucky +195
• Over/Under 160.5

These blue bloods have seen the roles reversed. While Kentucky was famous for welcoming freshman one-and-done players, Coach K was initially unwilling to recruit those headed toward the league; of course, that changed as Coach K neared the end of his career. Under new coaches, Duke boasts two of the nation’s premier freshmen, while Kentucky suddenly possesses several upperclassmen who transferred in. Experience will win out here as Kentucky boasts several veteran players who have made an impactful mark over multiple seasons in college basketball, which makes up many 21 or 22-year-olds who will battle Duke’s 18-year-olds. Duke has had the size advantage in every game thus far, yet Kentucky boasts Amari Williams, who averages 13.5 RPG. Koby Brea is an elite shooter who will continue to see significant playing time for Kentucky off the bench. At the same time, Coach Pope has brought Jaxson Robinson as another athletic wing scorer. Kentucky will not be intimidated, while Duke freshmen will face some of their biggest challenges in this important matchup; look to those veterans to score.

Duke vs Kentucky Moneyline

Betting UK gives you a great moneyline at almost two-to-one odds. Betting Duke money line is not worth it. If betting Duke give the points and I think that’s a bad idea also.. To find the best line, you need accounts with multiple sportsbooks, and we got you covered as we break down the best sports betting app

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4.5/5

Tip: Bet Kentucky +6.5

• Kentucky more-experienced
• Neutral site
• Duke young but talented

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Duke vs Kentucky Over/Under Analysis

The over/under on this game is a tough pick. Both teams are very talented and score points in bunches. Dukes youth is a worry and how quickly Kentucky’s veteran players mess together are both questions that need to be answered. There is so much talent on the floor and energy will be high. I am leaning towards the under in this one, but it will be a small bet.

DraftKings

4.5/5

Tip: Bet the Under 160.5

• High scoring game
• Neutral site
• Youth vs Experience

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Prediction: I expect a close, high-energy game that will come down to the wire. Take the Wildcats and the +6.5 points. The Wildcats may not win, but 6.5 points is a lot in this game.