DUKE BLUE DEVILS
 Coach: Mike Krzyzewski |  Record: 30-3

 
Overview: Ranked number one for a good chunk of the season, Duke fashioned a formidable 14-0 record in ACC play before dropping its last two league games to Florida State and North Carolina. The sloppy end to their regular season isn't prompting anyone to write off the Blue Devils just yet, though. If the Blue Devils can remedy some defensive woes (opponents have shot a healthy 43% against them), another deep run into the NCAA Tournament is pretty much a certainty.

Possible Difference Maker: No inside-outside combo gets as much press as Duke's dynamic duo of center Shelden Williams and guard J.J. Redick. But freshman point guard Greg Paulus probably holds Duke's fortune in his nimble hands. If Paulus can take care of the rock and steal a few layups and open jumpers along the way, he'll help to make Williams and Redick that much more lethal.

On Offense: It’s all about the three-point line. They want to get out in transition and get up looks from the perimeter, on the break. They look for the three before the layup. In the halfcourt they run a lot of things to get Redick looks.

On Defense: A solid man-to-man team and with, the shot-blocking presence of Williams near the tin.

Strength: They simply will not give away possessions. They are so solid at both ends of the floor and make very good decisions.

Weakness: While they are good defensively, you can take their guards off the dribble, as Paulus and Sean Dockery aren’t real quick. They will also give up some offensive rebounds.

Key to Success: Their mental toughness. They are so well-drilled. Everyone is surprised when Duke loses, but the most surprised are the players. They have such a great “You cannot beat us” mentality.

How to Beat Them: Make Redick put the ball on the floor. Make him get his points by creating space off the dribble and going to the basket. Don’t let him get into a catch and shoot mode from the perimeter. You also want to force Dockery, Paulus and Josh McRoberts beat you. Keep Redick from scoring in the 30s and make the others put up big numbers.