By Garin Turner
Wake Forest (2-1) faces its toughest challenge of the season Saturday when it hosts No. 16 Georgia Tech (4-0). Kickoff is set for noon EST on ESPN. A win would give the Demon Deacons a signature victory and push them to 3-1 on the year.
Wake Forest’s Season So Far
The Demon Deacons opened with a defensive slugfest, edging Kennesaw State 10-9. They followed with a more complete performance in a 42-10 win over West Carolina. Last week, however, Wake Forest fell short in its ACC opener, losing 34-24 to NC State.
After this weekend, Wake will hit the road for consecutive games against Virginia Tech and Oregon State.
By the Numbers
Offense (National Rank):
• Total Offense: 400.3 yards per game (67th)
• Passing: 246.3 yards (56th)
• Rushing: 154 yards (78th)
• Scoring: 25.3 points (88th)
Defense (National Rank):
• Total Defense: 317 yards allowed (46th)
• Passing: 184.7 yards allowed (46th)
• Rushing: 132.3 yards allowed (61st)
• Scoring: 17.7 points allowed (37th)
The defense has been solid, but offensive inconsistencies — particularly in the red zone — remain a concern. Wake Forest has converted just 62.5% of its red zone trips into points, ranking 132nd nationally.
Key Matchup
The red zone could decide this game. Georgia Tech’s defense sits middle of the pack in red zone efficiency (62nd), but Wake Forest’s struggles finishing drives could be costly against a ranked opponent. Quarterback Robby Ashford must limit turnovers and maximize opportunities.
Team Leaders
• Passing: Robby Ashford – 697 yards, 1 TD, 3 INT
• Rushing: Demond Claiborne – 247 yards, 4 TD
• Receiving: Chris Barnes – 12 receptions, 248 yards
• Tackles: Nick Andersen – 23
• Sacks: Langston Hardy – 2.5
• Interceptions: Zamari Stevenson – 1
Prediction
Georgia Tech enters unbeaten and has shown balance on both sides of the ball. For Wake Forest, missed red zone opportunities and turnovers have been recurring issues. Unless those problems are cleaned up, the Demon Deacons will struggle to keep pace.
Prediction: Georgia Tech 38, Wake Forest 13
