Here’s a matchup that’s flying under the radar but could shake up the ACC standings: Duke vs. Georgia Tech, two undefeated conference powerhouses clashing for first place. A win here keeps either team on a collision course for Charlotte, but only one will emerge unscathed. ESPN’s Greg McElroy has weighed in, boldly picking the Duke Blue Devils to edge out the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. But here’s where it gets controversial: McElroy believes Duke’s explosive offense and disruptive defense will be the deciding factors—a take that’s sure to spark debate among fans of both teams.
McElroy’s confidence in Duke hinges on their quarterback, Darian Mensah, who’s been nothing short of sensational this season. Transferred via the NCAA portal, Mensah has already thrown for 1,838 yards, 15 touchdowns, and just two interceptions through six games, completing a staggering 69.8% of his passes. These numbers aren’t just impressive—they’re on track to dwarf his already solid 2024 campaign with Tulane. If Duke’s passing attack clicks, Georgia Tech’s defense will have their hands full.
But this is the part most people miss: Georgia Tech’s path to victory lies in their ability to pressure Mensah. Duke’s offensive line has shown cracks, with Mensah being sacked 12 times already. McElroy points out, ‘If Georgia Tech’s defense can consistently get into the backfield, it might be the key to slowing down Duke’s high-octane offense.’ This defensive battle could be the game’s turning point—a bold prediction that invites scrutiny and discussion.
Historically, Georgia Tech holds a four-game winning streak in this series, dating back to 2020. Duke is hungry to snap that skid, especially after the teams’ 2023 hiatus ended a nearly century-long streak of annual matchups. For both coaches—Manny Diaz at Duke and Brent Key at Georgia Tech—this game is about more than just a win. A victory for Key could propel Georgia Tech into the top-10 rankings for the first time since 2014, while Diaz aims to solidify Duke’s upward trajectory in his second season.
Kickoff is set for noon ET at Wallace Wade Stadium, and McElroy predicts Duke will start ACC play 4-0. But here’s the question: Can Georgia Tech’s defense disrupt Mensah enough to flip the script? Or will Duke’s firepower prove too much to handle? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one game where every play could shift the balance of power in the ACC.
