Clemson is still second in the conference, although they recently lost a home game to Georgia Tech. The Tech game was the proverbial “trap” game, with Clemson pointing to their upcoming home game against the #2 ranked Blue Devils.
Duke has more talent than any other ACC team. With high-level recruits who come in ready for this level, Duke always has a talent advantage within the ACC.
Duke has won tough games away (at Louisville and at Wake). They will not be in awe of their surroundings when visiting Clemson.
Cooper Flagg is the best player in the ACC. Even though a freshman, Flagg has all the tools needed to excel both at this level as well as the next. There isn’t anyone in the league who can guard him one-on-one.
Littlejohn Coliseum has typically been tough on opposing teams. Clemson’s record there has been very good in the last few years.
This is Clemson’s Super Bowl. Opposing teams always get p to play Duke and this is a chance for Clemson to get a national recognized victory.
Clemson does have the capability to make threes. While not always shooting the best percentage, there are numerous players willing and able to shoot the three. Duke's three point shooting has at times not been the best, but they make enough that opposing teams can't just sit back and clog up the lane.
A Clemson lose would put the more toward the bubble for March Madness. With a lack of Q1 games, they cannot afford to fail to look presentable in this game. They don't want to get caught looking to see if there are conference tournament upsets that could leave them out of the big dance.
In looking at all the factors listed above, plus a few others, I don’t think Clemson has enough to pull out a victory. While Duke has yet to play a bad road game (in part because of their talent level), they should have enough to keep their record spotless in the league.