Duke has overtaken Auburn as the new No. 1 in the latest college basketball power rankings. The Blue Devils, who have won a nation-leading 12 consecutive games, have a net rating of 36.71 en route to a 16-2 start -- the best in KenPom.

March Madness is still a couple of months away, but the quest for quality victories is well underway for the men’s basketball teams hoping to participate in the NCAA tournament. In truth, it began way back in November, and of course it continues this weekend.

With a big matchup ahead for No. 2 Duke against a punchy Wake Forest squad, the Blue Zone is here with an overview, key stat, X-Factor and three keys to a Blue Devil victory against the Demon Deacons.

The buzz around Khaman Maluach entering college centered on his 7-foot-2 size, incredible wingspan and ability to block shots. While he's been a deterrent for opponents around the rim -- Duke ranks second in 2-point defense nationally -- Maluach is also starting to come on as a consistent offensive piece.

Duke ascended to its highest ranking in the AP Top 25 men's college basketball poll since the 2023-24 preseason on Monday with a leap from No. 3 to No. 2 behind unanimous No. 1 Auburn. The Blue Devils,