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Duke’s approach to BC? ‘We need to stop’ need for big rallies

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Mike Miller

Two of Duke’s last three games turned out to be thrilling wins after monster comebacks.

If the No. 5 Blue Devils (22-4, 9-2 in ACC) need to do that again Sunday, that’s a problem.

Duke’s a 13-point favorite for its game at Boston College, one of the ACC’s worst teams. The Eagles (8-18, 3-9) have lost eight of their last nine games, five of which were by at least 15 points. Their defense is soft and the offense can’t score.

However … that one victory? It was against Florida State, a team sitting atop the ACC standings.

Duke’s aware. More importantly, the Devils are sick of staging those rallies.

“I’m tired of doing this, to tell you the truth,” freshman Austin Rivers told CBSSports.com. “I’m so proud and everybody’s so proud, but at the same time, we need to stop doing this.”

Rivers should be. He did the yeoman’s work in last week’s win against UNC – including that gorgeous game-winner – and added 16 in Thursday’s win at N.C. State.

BC’s lost four straight to Duke, but has fared well at home, losing the last three times at Conte Forum by just seven points total.

If this one’s not Duke by at least seven, something’s wrong.

You also can follow me on Twitter @MikeMillerNBC.