The Duke Blue Devils are set to challenge the Tulane Green Wave in Week 3 of the 2025 regular season. With the game taking place at Yulman Stadium in New Orleans, Duke aims to improve on their current 1-1 record. This night game will be broadcast on ESPN2, providing a national stage for both teams. Duke enters the contest after a loss to the Illinois Fighting Illini, where they conceded 45 points while scoring 19. Despite a strong passing game with 356 yards, turnovers proved costly with four fumbles and an interception. Their previous win against Elon Phoenix showcased their offensive capabilities, particularly through the air with 389 passing yards. Tulane, on the other hand, has started the season undefeated with a 2-0 record. Their recent victory against South Alabama Jaguars was narrow, with a final score of 33-31, highlighting a strong rushing performance with 241 yards. In their home opener, Tulane dominated Northwestern Wildcats 23-3, effectively utilizing both their rushing and defensive strengths.
Tulane vs Duke At a Glance
- Game Location: Yulman Stadium in New Orleans, LA
- Game Date & Time: Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 8:00 PM
- TV Channel: ESPN2
- Current Odds: Tulane favored at -2.5 spread
- Weather: Outdoor Field – Check local weather updates
- Team Records: Duke is 1-1; Tulane is 2-0
Tulane Green Wave: A Force to Be Reckoned With in 2025
Offensive Strengths
The Tulane Green Wave’s offense is notable for its strong rushing game. With 510 rushing yards ranked 19th in the nation for the 2025 season, they have a powerful ground attack. Their rushing prowess is complemented by their ability to move the chains, as they recorded 46 first downs, placing them 18th overall.
Despite their rushing strength, the Green Wave’s passing game has room for improvement. They have accumulated 317 passing yards, placing them 100th in the nation. Their overall offensive effort has resulted in 56 points, ranking them 37th in scoring.
Defensive Insights
Tulane’s defense has been instrumental in their success, with a focus on forcing turnovers and putting pressure on the quarterback. Their defense ranks impressively in interceptions and fumbles recovered, standing at 5th and 3rd in the nation, respectively. Additionally, their ability to sack opposing quarterbacks is ranked 7th.
They have allowed 34 points so far, which places them 25th in the nation. This indicates a defensive unit that can hold its ground and support the offensive efforts in securing victories.
Key Players
Quarterback Jake Retzlaff has been pivotal for Tulane, leading the team with 277 passing yards over two games. Zuberi Mobley and Javin Gordon have been effective on the ground, with Mobley gaining 100 rushing yards and Gordon 104 over two games. Their contributions are crucial to maintaining Tulane’s strong rushing attack.
On the receiving end, Omari Hayes has made an impact with 9 receptions and 74 receiving yards, offering a reliable target for Retzlaff. Justyn Reid, the tight end, has also chipped in with a receiving touchdown, providing depth to their passing game.
Recent Game Performances
Tulane began the season with a commanding 23-3 win against the Northwestern Wildcats at home. Their rushing attack proved dominant with 269 rushing yards compared to Northwestern’s 76. This victory showcased Tulane’s ability to control the game on both sides of the ball.
In their second game, Tulane edged out South Alabama Jaguars 33-31 in a close encounter. They demonstrated resilience, gaining 241 rushing yards to South Alabama’s 190. This ability to win tight games is a testament to their team’s balance and tenacity.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-1 (50.0%)
Blue Devils Ready to Roll: Duke Heads to Tulane
Offensive Overview
Tulane Green Wave enters this contest with a solid offensive unit. They have consistently been able to move the ball both through the air and on the ground. Their ability to maintain balance in their offensive play calling has been a key factor in their success.
Tulane’s passing attack is expected to be a crucial component of their game plan against Duke. With their quarterback showing efficiency and accuracy, the passing game has been a reliable source of yardage. The team will look to exploit any defensive weaknesses they find in Duke’s secondary.
Defensive Standouts
The Green Wave defense has been known for its aggressive play and ability to disrupt the opponent’s offense. Their front seven is particularly adept at getting pressure on opposing quarterbacks. This pressure often leads to forced errors and turnovers, a key part of Tulane’s defensive strategy.
In the secondary, Tulane boasts a group of ball-hawking defenders capable of making game-changing plays. Their ability to read the quarterback and react quickly has resulted in a number of interceptions. Duke will need to be cautious with their passing game to avoid costly mistakes.
Special Teams Impact
Special teams often play a critical role in tight games, and Tulane’s unit is no exception. Their return game can shift momentum quickly with their ability to gain significant yardage on punts and kickoffs. Additionally, their kicker has shown reliability in high-pressure situations, giving the team confidence in field goal scenarios.
Coverage units for Tulane have also been effective in limiting the opponent’s return opportunities. By winning the field position battle, they can provide their offense with advantageous starting positions. This facet of the game could be pivotal against a Duke team looking to exploit any advantage.
Team Betting Trends
- Overall record against the spread (ATS) trends favor Tulane in recent games.
- The Green Wave has a positive record in games played under the lights.
- Tulane tends to perform well when coming off a victory, showing strong momentum.
- Their performance against teams with similar records has been statistically favorable.
Tulane vs Duke Prediction: Tulane -2.5
Tulane enters this contest with a perfect 2-0 record, demonstrating strong performances both at home and on the road. Their effective rushing offense, ranked 19th nationally, combined with a top 25 defense in points against, positions them well against Duke. The Green Wave’s ability to control the tempo of the game should be a significant advantage.
Duke, with a 1-1 record, has shown strength in passing, ranking 7th in the nation. However, their defense has allowed 62 points over two games, indicating potential vulnerabilities. Tulane’s balanced attack could exploit these weaknesses, particularly in front of a home crowd.
Tulane’s consistent performance against the spread (ATS) this season, with a 100% success rate in their last 3 games, suggests they are a reliable bet. Playing under the lights at Yulman Stadium, where they have already secured a win this season, adds to their home advantage.
Given Tulane’s strong start and Duke’s defensive concerns, taking Tulane -2.5 appears a prudent choice. Projecting a final score of Tulane 28 – Duke 24, the Green Wave’s mix of solid defense and effective rushing should carry them to a home victory.
- Tulane vs Duke Prediction: Tulane -2.5
- Tulane vs Duke Score: Tulane 28 – Duke 24
