Duke vs. Virginia: Staff predictions

Duke travels to Charlottesville for a Friday night showdown against Virginia in a game that both teams need.

A replay of last year’s ACC title game, won by Duke in overtime, the Blue Devils are coming off back-to-back losses, while the Cavaliers are 4-3 after a loss to SMU last Saturday.

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Here is the Duke Wire staff predictions for the critical conference matchup.

Sam Prestipino

Both Duke and Virginia enter Friday’s ACC Championship rematch in wounded animal mode, desperate for a win. For the Blue Devils, the game serves as a get-right spot after back-to-back losses have sunk expectations. If Duke can try to minimize penalties and turnovers, I think the Blue Devils will do just enough to get a win in the national spotlight.

Duke 20, Virginia 17

Brian Stultz

The last two weeks have ended in disappointment for the Blue Devils, and they must recover from it despite the short week because this game is critical for how successful this season can be for Manny Diaz and company.

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Look for Duke to lean on the combination of Nate Sheppard and CJ Campbell and take advantage of a mediocre Virginia rush defense that allows 152 yards per game. Walker Eget will make a couple of throws, but the Blue Devils will make a mistake or two that cost them the game.

Virginia 24, Duke 20

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This article originally appeared on Duke Wire: Duke vs. Virginia: Staff predictions

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Publish date : 2026-10-23 17:30:00

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