DUKE AT GEORGIA TECH

Line: Tech by 3 1/2

WHAT TO EXPECT

Georgia Tech on offense: In past games against Duke, Tech has often had high carry totals for its B-backs, which could mean a busy day for B-back Zach Laskey, who ran a career-high 29 times against Miami for 133 yards. Like Miami last week, Duke may try to force the ball out of quarterback Justin Thomas' hands on option plays.

Duke on offense: The Blue Devils are averaging 220.4 passing yards per game, the lowest since coach David Cutcliffe's first season at Duke in 2008. Quarterback Anthony Boone is struggling, but also, according to a report in the News & Observer in Raleigh, N.C., starting receivers Jamison Crowder and Issac Blakeney are both wearing splints on their thumbs.

Tech on defense: Starting the game well will be a priority for the Jackets. They have given up 41 points in the first quarter, compared with an average of 26 points in the final three quarters. The linebackers will be on particular alert, as the Blue Devils figure to test them with underneath routes and play-action passes.

Duke on defense: The player to watch is safety Jeremy Cash, second on the team in tackles with 45 and the team leader with five tackles for loss and co-leader with two forced fumbles. He had 14 tackles against Tech a year ago and forced a fumble. The Blue Devils have allowed 13 plays of 20 yards or more, tied for eighth fewest in the country, meaning a disciplined scheme (or a weak schedule).