Manny Diaz takes over Duke and has a nice warm-up game to get it all going before going to Northwestern next week. There are just enough new parts in place to need a game like this to put it all together.
However, Elon is more than just a paycheck team. The offense will be dangerous, the defense should once again be good at taking the ball away, and all the way around the Phoenix can make this a game.
Jul 24, 2024; Charlotte, NC, USA; Duke Blue Devils quarterback Maalik Murphy speaks to the media during the ACC Kickoff at Hilton Charlotte Uptown.
© Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports
Duke vs Elon Preview
Duke vs Elon How to Watch
Date: Friday, August 30, 2024
Game Time: 7:30 pm ET
Venue: Wallace Wade Stadium, Durham, NC
How to Watch: ACC Network
2023 Records: Duke (8-5), Elon (6-5)
- Week 1 Schedule, Predictions
Why Elon Will Win
The Phoenix should keep cranking up the deep plays with the passing game. They were among the best in the FCS last season in yards per completion - averaging more than 14 yards per catch - and here it comes again.
Matthew Downing is back after throwing 19 touchdown passes and just four picks, Chandler Brayboy averaged close to 20 yards per catch, and the pressure will be put on the Duke secondary all game long.
However …
Why Duke Will Win
The Duke secondary might be one of the team’s biggest early strengths.
The corners are experienced with a physical style - this group can hit - and it’ll be helped by a line that will get into the backfield. It’s a Manny Diaz team - the defense will be strong.
The offensive side should be more explosive with offensive coordinator Jonathan Brewer coming over from SMU to take over. The receivers are experienced and should have some big moments, which puts all eyes on …
Duke vs Elon: Who Will Win
Maalik Murphy needs to take over right away.
Elon might be able to throw the deep ball, but Murphy can bring it, too. The Texas transfer is big, can move, and even though it’ll be against Elon, he’ll make a lot of noise in a good performance as the Blue Devils push by.
Duke vs Elon Prediction, Betting Lines
Duke 41, Elon 7
Line: Duke -23.5, o/u: 49.5
ATS Confidence out of 5: 2.5
Duke vs Elon Must See Rating: 2
