Duke 85, Robert Morris 56

Duke wasn’t about to be an upset victim this year.

The Blue Devils stepped on Robert Morris’ neck early, building a 17-point lead by halftime and cruising to an easy win over the Colonials. Duke has struggled in the early rounds in a couple of recent NCAA Tournaments, and Duke has looked vulnerable at times this season. But this also is the time of year Duke has been focused on all year, and even thought the Blue Devils are stocked with kids, there was a different energy for Coach K’s club.

Duke’s defense and versatility will keep the Blue Devils around for a while in this tourney. The Blue Devils have the look of a team on a mission.