Matchup of the Day

Your Win Condition

Predict and cancel his E (Body Slam) with Darius's E.

General Strategy

If Gragas runs Phase Rush, the matchup is difficult because he lands E and uses MS to escape. If he runs Grasp, he can be pulled back and killed. Learn the player's E timing; E-pulling the Body Slam is 'one of those cancelable things' that makes him 'so dead it is insane'. Avoid fighting under his turret post-six (R into turret shots is lethal). Once he buys Everfrost, the lane is generally 'done' if you aren't already winning, as it grants him crucial range and escape tools.

Trading Patterns

He pokes heavily with Q (Barrel Roll). If you force an all-in, he will use E and Phase Rush to escape. If he uses R, be constantly mobile so he cannot get a clean R knockback. The recent durability patch reduced his passive healing, which is a positive for Darius in this lane.

Wave Management

Their Win Condition

Consistent Q poke. Escaping engagements using E and Phase Rush. Using R to disengage or set up turret kills.