In a highly anticipated Elite Eight matchup, the Duke Blue Devils are set to take on the North Carolina State Wolfpack on Sunday evening. Both teams have fought their way to this stage of the March Madness tournament, but Duke enters the game as the heavy favorite.

North Carolina State has embarked on a remarkable journey, winning eight consecutive games and turning their seemingly lost season into a memorable March Madness campaign. With victories over notable teams like the North Carolina Tar Heels and Marquette Golden Eagles, the Wolfpack have proven their ability to compete against elite opponents.

However, despite their recent success, the Wolfpack still face an uphill battle against the dominant Blue Devils. Duke, ranked among the top five teams, boasts an impressive offense and a formidable defense. Led by key players such as Kyle Filipowski, Jeremy Roach, and Jared McCain, the Blue Devils have displayed a diverse range of weapons throughout the tournament.

While NC State has shown consistency on both ends of the court during their winning streak, Duke's overall strength and higher ranking point towards their advantage in this matchup. According to KenPom.com, the Wolfpack are ranked 49th overall, signifying their solid performance but falling short of greatness.

In contrast, Duke's higher ranking and exceptional performance in the tournament indicate that they possess the firepower to overpower NC State. With impressive victories over tough opponents, including a recent upset win against the No. 1 seed Houston Cougars, the Blue Devils have demonstrated their ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure games.

As the teams prepare to face off, many bettors are putting their trust in the data rather than sentiment, favoring Duke to come out on top. The Blue Devils' superior talent and varied offensive strategies are expected to overwhelm the Wolfpack in this crucial matchup.

While North Carolina State's incredible run has captivated fans, Duke's status as a top contender and their recent tournament success make them the clear frontrunner for the victory. With their sights set on securing a spot in the Final Four, the Blue Devils are poised to deliver a dominant performance and cover the spread against NC State.

As the March Madness tournament reaches its climax, basketball fans eagerly anticipate an action-packed battle between these two fierce rivals. Only time will tell if the underdog Wolfpack can defy the odds once again or if the Blue Devils will solidify their dominance and claim a spot in the Final Four.