NCAA Men’s Basketball action will see two teams ranked in the AP Top 25 Poll face off against each other. The #19 Duke Blue Devils will face the #20 Virginia Tech Hokies in a high-stakes game for both programs.

The Blue Devils have shaken off a rough start to the season and found their way back into the AP rankings. They have been plagued with COVID issues since day one and have played just seven games all season. However, they are on a three-game winning streak heading into this matchup, with a 5-2 record.

The Virginia Tech Hokies are barely inside the Top 25 right now, and a win over a higher-ranked opponent will do wonders for them if they want to stay in the rankings. The Hokies have a phenomenal 10-2 record and wins over the Clemson Tigers and the Villanova Wildcats.

Who wins this highly anticipated ACC clash?

NCAA Men’s Basketball: Will the Hokies continue their ascent up the rankings?

The journey of both these teams with respect to their ranking in the AP Poll is odd. The Hokies have lost just as many games as the Blue Devils, but have won five more games than them. Even after all that, they are ranked under the Blue Devils? Let us not be mistaken, Duke is the underdog in this game.

The Hokies are tested and ready to battle this season. They did lose to Louisville a week or so ago, but they have gotten wins back. Their dynamic and fast-paced offense is something Coach K might struggle game-planning his young team against. At least Duke may have star forward Jalen Johnson back.

The Blue Devils will start the game with  DJ Steward, Jordan Goldwire, Jeremy Roach, Matthew Hurt, and Mark William. The Hokies will have Wabissa Bede, Nahiem Alleyne, Nahiem Alleyne, Justyn Mutts, and Keve Aluma.

For our prediction, we are sticking with the Hokies. They have more firepower on their team and are also in an unbroken rhythm, unlike the Blue Devils. This might not be the night for the historic program.