Duke @ Memphis preview

Last Meeting ( Sep 22, 2012 ) Memphis 14, Duke 38

Memphis is hoping to take a big leap in head coach Justin Fuente's second year as it prepares to face Duke in its season opener. The Tigers are coming off a rare opening-week bye and eager to start the campaign on the right track. Memphis is out to exact a measure of revenge after being manhandled by the Blue Devils last season.

Duke is looking to make it two victories in a row as it hits the road for the first time in 2013. The Blue Devils made short work of North Carolina Central in their season opener, recording their first shutout since 1989 in the process. David Cutcliffe’s team is oozing confidence, and another win would aid it in its quest for two consecutive bowl appearances.

TV: 4:30 p.m. ET, ESPN3. LINE: Duke -6.

ABOUT DUKE (1-0): Jamison Crowder caught six passes for 62 yards and returned a punt 76 yards for a touchdown in Saturday's win. The Blue Devils’ defense held North Carolina Central to just 184 yards of total offense and forced two turnovers. Junior quarterback Anthony Boone had a stellar afternoon, completing 16-of-20 passes for 176 yards, while Brandon Connette threw for two scores and ran for another.

ABOUT MEMPHIS (2012: 4-8,): Redshirt freshman quarterback Paxton Lynch will be making his first career start for Memphis. Redshirt senior Brandon Hayes returns after rushing for a team-high 576 yards and six touchdowns last season. The Tigers won their last three games of the 2012 campaign, averaging 41.7 points during the streak.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Duke outgained Memphis 500-152 and picked up 28 first downs en route to its 38-14 win last season.

2. The Tigers gave up 30 points or more in seven of their 12 games last year.

3. Memphis is 1-9 in its last 10 non-conference contests.

PREDICTION: Duke 31, Memphis 17