Duke vs Elon Prediction, Game Preview & Betting Lines 2025

Originally posted on College Football News
By Pete Fiutak | Last updated Aug 21, 2025 11:00 PM ET

This should be different.

These two opened up last season with Duke winning 26-3, but the running game didn't work, and things weren't always that smooth offensively, but the defense was a brick wall.

The defense should be every bit as good this time around, but the attack has the upside and talent to put on more of a show - at least that's the hope before dealing with Illinois next.

This is Elon's only game against an FBS team. It's coming off a decent season, closed out with four straight wins and a 5-1 finishing kick. But it's replacing a ton of key players, Duke is improved, and again, this year's meeting likely won't be the same.

Duke vs Elon Preview

Duke vs Elon: How To Watch
Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Game Time: 7:30 PM ET
TV: ESPN+
Location: Wallace Wade Stadium, Durham, NC

Why Elon Will Win

The Phoenix need to find ways to keep the chains moving. They weren't great at doing that consistently last year, but as long as they can control the clock a bit, they should be able to hang around.

The Duke offense still has to prove it can run the ball behind a line that was great in pass protection, but didn't blast away. Let the pass rush keep everything contained on the outside, hope the Blue Devils aren't sharp, and ...

Why Duke Will Win

Welcome to the Darian Mensah era.

The Tulane transfer was a high-priced quarterback signing to add more overall pizzazz to the attack. He's an upgrade at the position, the receiving corps has a few nice parts, and the running backs are deep.

The offensive front that struggled so much last year returns full of veterans, and the defense will be fa ntastic again, starting with a line that will live in the backfield. And ...

Duke vs Elon: Who Will Win

Elon is missing just about everyone of note who made anything happen offensively, and it has to replace most of the top defensive talents.

That's a slight exaggeration, but Duke should add the offensive pop this year with Mensah going off right away. The defense will take care of the rest.

Duke vs Elon Prediction, Betting Lines

Duke 41, Elon 6
Consensus Line: Duke -33.5, o/u: 47.5
ATS Confidence out of 5: 3
Must See Rating: 1.5

Consensus Line from BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel. Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

This article first appeared on College Football News and was syndicated with permission.

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