The men's lacrosse team has been named the team to beat for the upcoming 2009-2010 season in the Inside Lacrosse Face-Off Yearbook Top 25. The team returns its top four scorers from last season's squad that amassed a 15-4 record and made it to the semi-finals of the NCAA tournament before falling to two-time defending champion Syracuse.
The Blue Devils-who have won four consecutive ACC championships-will be led by captains Ned Crotty, Sam Payton, Max Quinzani and Parker McKee and have hopes for winning a national championship.
1 - Duke2009 Record: 15-4
2009 Goals Per Game: 11.74
2009 Goals Against Average: 8.42
The Skinny: A talent-laden team in each of the past few years, the Blue Devils have a great 1-2 punch at attack with Ned Crotty and Max Quinzani. Can 2010 be the year they finally get over the hump?
Rounding out the top five of the preseason rankings are Syracuse, Virginia, North Carolina and Cornell. The Blue Devils kick off their season on Feb. 13 against Bucknell in Atlanta, Ga.
Will this be the year that Duke lacrosse wins its first national title?
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