Virginia, Duke set for primetime ACC matchup

Virginia hosts Duke in a high-stakes ACC rivalry game, with the Cavaliers seeking a win to strengthen their bowl hopes and avenge last season’s championship-game defeat. Virginia’s home-field advantage and stronger turnover margin offer reasons for optimism, but quarterback Beau Pribula has struggled recently, and the Cavaliers have been inefficient on third downs and in the red zone. Duke enters on a two-game losing streak, yet its defense remains a major strength, particularly its ability to pressure quarterbacks without blitzing. The Blue Devils’ offense centers on running back Nate Sheppard, a productive runner and receiver, while Virginia’s run defense has been vulnerable. Virginia is viewed as a narrow favorite at home, but Duke’s defensive pressure and Sheppard’s playmaking could make the matchup close.