Duke vs. Baylor: Second-Round Thriller in the NCAA Tournament

Setting the Stage: Duke's Sweet 16 Run

For the second time in just two years, the mighty Duke Blue Devils are back in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament. This time, they’re facing off against the No. 9-seeded Baylor Bears in a matchup that promises excitement and drama. The Blue Devils have been nothing short of dominant, and their path to the Sweet 16 has been relatively smooth. But don’t underestimate the Bears—they’re hungry, determined, and ready to prove they belong on this stage.

Matchup Details: Duke vs. Baylor

It’s an intriguing matchup as the No. 9 seed Baylor Bears take on the top-seeded Duke Blue Devils in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. This game is set to tip off this afternoon at the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina. The Bears are coming off a strong performance, but they’ll face a towering challenge against a Duke team that boasts an impressive 90.4% implied moneyline win probability in this contest. That said, anything can happen in March Madness, and Baylor is no stranger to upsets.

Key Stats and Insights

According to the latest SportsLine consensus, the betting line for this game reflects Duke's dominance, but the over/under for total points scored is set at 145.5, a slight increase from the opener. For those of you who follow the analytics closely, KenPom’s data suggests that Duke is a powerhouse with no glaring weaknesses. But let’s not forget that Baylor has been on a roll, winning games with grit and determination. This game could go either way, and that’s what makes it so thrilling.

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A Look Back: Duke's Dominance So Far

Duke hasn’t broken a sweat making it to the Sweet 16. They dismantled Mount St. Mary’s in the first round with a commanding performance, showcasing their depth, talent, and coaching prowess. Coach K’s team has been rolling, winning five of their last nine games by double digits. Their defense is suffocating, and their offense is nearly unstoppable. But as we all know, March Madness is unpredictable, and every game is a new story waiting to unfold.

Personal Storylines: Jeremy Roach's Return

One of the most compelling subplots in this game is the return of Jeremy Roach, Duke’s former captain, who now plays for Baylor. Roach’s exit from Duke after four years was bittersweet, but this Sunday, he gets the chance to face his old team. It’s a full-circle moment for him, and you can bet he’ll be bringing his A-game. Fans will be watching closely to see how Roach performs against his former teammates and whether he can lead Baylor to an upset.

Game Details: Duke vs. Baylor

Start Time, TV Channel, and Location

The game between Duke and Baylor is scheduled for Sunday at 2:40 p.m. ET and will air on CBS. The venue is the Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, where the Blue Devils will aim to maintain their dominance and secure a spot in the Sweet 16. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, with fans from both teams creating a buzzing energy that will fuel the players on the court.

Expert Predictions and Analysis

Experts are tipping Duke to win this game, but Baylor has some tricks up their sleeve. In their previous matchup this season, Tyrese Proctor was nearly unstoppable, hitting shot after shot. As Drew said in a recent interview, "The analytics showed they didn’t have any weaknesses," referring to Duke. But Baylor’s strength lies in their tenacity and teamwork, and they’ll need every ounce of it to pull off an upset.

Game Highlights and Recap

After the game, you can expect a full recap of all the action, including key plays, standout performances, and the emotions of the players. Whether you’re tuning in live or catching the highlights later, this game is one you won’t want to miss. Baylor and Duke have a history in the NCAA Tournament, and this Sunday’s matchup is shaping up to be another classic. Keep an eye on CBSSports.com for all the latest game previews, live stats, expert picks, and recaps.

Why This Game Matters

This second-round clash between No. 1 Duke and No. 9 Baylor is more than just a basketball game—it’s a battle of wills, strategies, and heart. For Duke, it’s about proving they’re the team to beat. For Baylor, it’s about proving they belong. Both teams have shown they can rise to the occasion, and this game will be a true test of their mettle. So grab your snacks, gather your friends, and get ready for one of the most exciting games of March Madness 2025. Let the showdown begin!