Va Tech Looks to Dethrone Duke in Cameron Showdown

If you could critique Duke over the last few seasons, one of the common problem areas would be their inability to slow down athletic guards.  Many say that it is because the Devils are simply un-athletic, slow, and again un-athletic.

While that has been a crutch to Duke's success, that is the exact thing they will need to stop as they hope to keep a strong hold on the ACC lead.

They are currently one and a half games in front of Tech for the lead, and a loss against these Hokies would really tighten the ACC.

When these Hokies step into Cameron to take on the Devils they will bringing with them the conferences leading scorer in Malcolm Delaney.  Delaney is almost a lock to be on the ACC first team ballot, and has the potential to slice up the tough duke D.

It is going to be a great day to see who can take over the game more for their team, Nolan Smith or Delaney.

For the Devils, their game plan is simple.  Bend but don't break.  I said that in my preview against Maryland as well.  Players like vasquez and Delaney are going to score.  The Duke defense needs to bend and allow him to work, but not break and give him the open shots that he will make.  If you force him to take the tough shot his field goal percentage will decrease.  If you can get him out of his rhythm early, then Tech is in for a long night in front of the Crazies.

Duke also needs to start shooting the ball better.  They have had several games this season where their defense got them wins, you just can't win consistently if you don't score points.

a wild card in this game is Brian Zoubek.  He has been playing very well lately including one career game.  If he can have another superior performance we could be seeing Zoub transform in front of our eyes.

All in all this one is going to be much closer than the Duke Maryland game.  Tech is more athletic and could provide problems for Duke.  That being said, K will have the Devils ready to play D.  Expect Duke to pull away late.