CAN DUKE WIN IT ALL?

Last night the Dookies got scrappy and simply outhustled the Heels despite losing the battle on the boards. They have great depth at guard and forward and once Zubek gets healthy, they'll be able to save Lance Thomas from foul trouble and better utilize him down low. OK, he got mandhandled by Psycho T last night. But most big men do. I don't think the UNC can make excuses for Lawson. Ellington knew he had to step up and wasn't a factor at all. Why? Because Henderson and Nelson are very good perimeter defenders. They get their hands in shooters' faces every time. For the first time since the ancient days of Grant Hill and the short stint of Corey Maggette, Coach K has two superior athletes who can take over at both ends. I am starting to become a believer in this Duke team. They make up for a lack of rebounds by forcing turnovers and outscrapping bigger opponents. Two teams will give them major problems (besides UNC once Lawson gets back). Tennessee and UCLA. Pearl's squad can matchup with Duke's quickness and may even push tempo too much for the Devils. Ben Howland's boys are a rugged, confident, athletic, balanced group, probably the team to beat this season. I can't wait for March.