FSU football: Top 5 reasons Noles will defeat Duke Blue Devils Friday night

FSU Has Better Special Teams

The point spread is -3 three, which means it would be a coin-flip game on a neutral field. In a game that'll likely be low-scoring, it's all about the margins for error, and that's where special teams could come into play.

FSU has the better kicker and punter. Field position could play a major factor in this game. Alex Mastromanno averaged nearly 50 yards per punt and has become exceptional at pinning teams inside their 20-yard line.

Ryan Fitzgerald has been great in his opportunities, making all six field goal attempts, including 3-3 from 50+ yards.

Duke's punter averages 45 yards per punt but has landed 17 inside the 20-yard line. Duke's kicker is 7 of 10, with one miss from 30-39 yards and two misses between 40-49 yards.

Mastromanno has the edge in flipping the field with a huge punt from his side of the field and can use finesse when he needs to pin a team deep if he's near midfield. Fitzgerald has been clutch from everywhere, including long-range. FSU special teams rank No. 2 nationally, and Duke ranks No. 51. In a game where scoring could be low, FSU has the edge.