Cue up the "No one believed in us" title defense.
Duke, despite holding the 2010 national championship, was picked fifth in the USILA preseason poll today, behind Virginia, Syracuse, North Carolina and Maryland. Virginia and Syracuse were the only teams to receive first-place votes, with eight and three, respectively.
The seemingly low ranking most likely comes because of the graduation of Ned Crotty, Max Quinzani, Parker McKee and other stars from last year's team. The Blue Devils will return only six starters, although among those returning are C.J. Costabile and Justin Turri, who was named a second-team preseason All-American.
Duke starts its season Feb. 12 against Siena.
Get The Chronicle straight to your inbox
Signup for our weekly newsletter. Cancel at any time.