Connecticut Huskies vs. Duke Blue Devils Pick & Prediction SEPTEMBER 14th 2024

Preview and Prediction

Two dominant teams in the world of basketball will go head-to-head on the football field this Saturday evening as UConn takes on Duke in a non-conference game in Durham, N.C.

This will only be the fourth time these two schools' football teams have met. UConn came out on top with a 22-20 win in 2004 and a 45-14 victory in 2007, but Duke responded with a 41-7 win in their most recent matchup last season.

While most of Duke's offensive stars from last year have moved on, UConn will still have to face wide receiver Jordan Moore, who had eight catches for 86 yards and a touchdown in their 2023 meeting.

Moore has continued to be a threat this season, with seven catches for 112 yards in Duke's season opener against Elon and 11 catches for 121 yards and a touchdown in their double-overtime win against Northwestern last weekend.

Despite facing challenges like a foot injury to running back Jaquez Moore and multiple mistakes on the field, including an interception, blocked punt, muffed punt, and missed field goal, Duke was able to come out on top against Northwestern.

"That's a testament to our team's culture," said Jordan Moore. "The game isn't won in the first quarter, it's won in the fourth or overtime. We keep fighting and have faith in each other to make plays."

UConn is also feeling good after their dominant 63-17 win against FCS opponent Merrimack last weekend. Quarterback Joe Fagnano threw for five touchdowns and ran for another, leading the Huskies to a 56-7 lead at halftime.

Fagnano stepped in for starting quarterback Nick Evers, who suffered a concussion in their season opener against Maryland. Evers struggled in that game, completing only 6 of 17 passes for 73 yards before being replaced by Fagnano.

"Joe was very composed, went through his progressions, threw accurately, and ran well," said UConn coach Jim Mora Jr. "I was very impressed with his performance. Nick's condition will be monitored daily by our medical staff."

PREDICTION

Connecticut Huskies

Duke Blue Devils