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Syracuse vs Duke Week 5 Betting Preview
The Syracuse Orange will face their biggest test yet without star quarterback Steve Angeli. The Notre Dame transfer tore his Achilles against Clemson, forcing redshirt sophomore Rickie Collins into his first career start. Syracuse enters 3-1 overall and 1-0 in the ACC.
On the other side, the Duke Blue Devils bounced back last week with a 45-33 win over NC State. QB Darian Mensah threw for three scores while RB Anderson Castle added three on the ground. At 2-2, Duke carries momentum but now heads into the Dome for a critical divisional clash.
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Line Movement and Odds
Oddsmakers opened Duke as a 5.5-point favorite. Current numbers across the college football odds board show Duke –5.5 to –6 with a total of 60.5. Moneyline sits around Duke –210 and Syracuse +180.
Public betting leans on the Blue Devils, but sharp action has tilted toward the under, expecting Syracuse’s offense to slow with Collins under center.
Matchup Breakdown
Syracuse outlook
Collins will be asked to manage the game and limit turnovers. WR Ian Strong is a key weapon after torching Iowa for 151 yards earlier this season. The Orange defense, though, must tighten up against the pass after giving up 330 yards last week.
Duke outlook
Mensah has passed for over 1,300 yards through four games, ranking near the top of the ACC. His chemistry with WR Jordan Moore stretches defenses. But Duke’s secondary has been shaky, and Syracuse will try to exploit it with Strong in single coverage.
Key battle
Collins’ composure against Duke’s pressure front. If the young QB avoids early mistakes, Syracuse can hang around. If not, Duke’s pass-heavy attack may pull away.
Injuries and Conditions
Syracuse Orange (full injury report)
- QB Steve Angeli: out for season (Achilles).
- QB Rickie Collins: starter, first career start.
Duke Blue Devils (full injury report)
- No major injuries reported heading into Week 5.
Best Bets and Prediction
Our projection: Duke 34, Syracuse 28 (62 total).
- Best bet: Duke –5.5
- Secondary lean: Over 60.5
Duke’s offense is tested and balanced, while Syracuse faces growing pains at QB. Expect a competitive first half before the Blue Devils’ passing game takes control.
Handicapping Angle
For more breakdowns, check current Service Plays from expert handicappers. The Handicapper Leaderboard highlights who’s been hottest, while strategy insights can be found in the Bettors Handbook.
