As Week 3 of the 2025 college football season unfolds, the North Carolina State Wolfpack travel to Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium to take on the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. Both teams enter the game with a perfect 2-0 record, setting the stage for an exciting Atlantic Coast Conference matchup. The game kicks off under the lights on Thursday, September 11, at 7:30 PM and will be broadcasted on ESPN. The Wolfpack have showcased a strong start to their season with a pair of home victories. Their most recent win came against the Virginia Cavaliers, where they managed a close 35-31 victory, highlighting their ability to perform in tight situations. North Carolina State will look to carry their momentum onto the road as they face their first away challenge of the season. Wake Forest, meanwhile, has enjoyed the comfort of home-field advantage in their opening games, securing a 42-10 victory over Western Carolina and a narrow 10-9 win against Kennesaw State. The Demon Deacons aim to maintain their strong start as they welcome the Wolfpack to Winston-Salem. With both teams unbeaten, fans can expect an intriguing battle between these Atlantic Coast Conference rivals.
Wake Forest vs North Carolina State At a Glance
- Game Location: Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium in Winston-Salem, NC
- Game Date & Time: Thursday, September 11, 2025 at 7:30 PM
- TV Broadcast: ESPN
- NC State Record: 2-0 this season
- Wake Forest Record: 2-0 this season
- Game Odds: NC State favored with a -7.0 spread
Wake Forest Demon Deacons: A Force to Reckon With This Season
Offensive Efficiency
The Wake Forest Demon Deacons have demonstrated a marked improvement in their offensive game this season. With 487 passing yards, they rank 52nd in the nation, showcasing a more dynamic aerial attack compared to last season’s 66th ranking with 2881 passing yards. Their rushing game has also seen progress, climbing to 34th place with 433 rushing yards.
First downs have been a key strength, as they sit at 23rd with 41 first downs. This indicates their ability to maintain possession and control the tempo of games. In contrast, last season they were 51st, showing a more well-rounded offense this year.
Defensive Standouts
Wake Forest’s defense has been impressive, allowing only 19 points, placing them 11th in the nation. This is a significant improvement from last season, where they ranked 128th after conceding 390 points. Their defensive line has been formidable, securing 7 sacks to rank 4th overall.
The secondary has also been sharp, with 1 interception ranking 2nd nationally. Additionally, the team has shown a knack for forcing turnovers, recovering 1 fumble, and standing 5th in the nation.
Recent Performances
In their recent game against Western Carolina, Wake Forest emerged with a commanding 42-10 victory. The Demon Deacons outgained the Catamounts with 269 passing yards and a substantial 294 rushing yards, displaying their balanced offensive approach.
Previously, they narrowly edged out Kennesaw State 10-9, indicating their ability to grind out wins even in tightly contested games. These results reflect their capability to adapt and execute in various game situations.
Key Players
Quarterback Robby Ashford has been pivotal, contributing 445 passing yards across two games. His leadership and playmaking have elevated Wake Forest’s offense to new heights. On the ground, running back Demond Claiborne has been a standout performer with 212 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns, ranking 20th in the nation.
In the receiving corps, Chris Barnes has been a reliable target, amassing 172 receiving yards. His efforts have been complemented by Sterling Berkhalter, who has also made significant contributions with 106 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Wake Forest Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- SU All Games: 2-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 2-0 (100.0%)
- O/U All Games: 0-2 (0.0%)
- SU in Home Games: 2-0 (100.0%)
- ATS in Home Games: 2-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Totals ≥ 50: 0-2 (0.0%)
North Carolina State Wolfpack Set to Tackle New Challenges in Upcoming Game
Offensive Highlights
The North Carolina State Wolfpack’s offense has started the 2025 season with a respectable performance, scoring 59 points, ranking 35th in the nation. Their passing game has been particularly noteworthy, accumulating 518 yards, which places them 41st in the national rankings.
Rushing is an area where the Wolfpack might look to improve, with 330 rushing yards so far, ranking 63rd. Despite this, they have been efficient in moving the chains, securing 43 first downs and ranking 21st in the country.
Defensive Strengths
The Wolfpack defense has been a solid unit, allowing just 48 points and ranking 38th nationally in points against. Their ability to generate pressure has been evident, as they’ve recorded a sack and an interception, ranking 10th and 2nd respectively.
While the team has yet to recover a fumble this season, their overall defensive metrics indicate a unit capable of making key stops. Their defensive performance has been a key factor in their early-season success.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback CJ Bailey has been an offensive leader, amassing 518 passing yards over the first two games, ranking 31st nationally. His ability to distribute the ball efficiently has been instrumental in the team’s early victories.
Running back Hollywood Smothers has also contributed significantly, with 216 rushing yards and three touchdowns, demonstrating his importance in the ground game. Wide receiver Wesley Grimes has been a reliable target, with 154 receiving yards and a touchdown.
Recent Game Performance
In their recent games, the Wolfpack secured a win against the Virginia Cavaliers with a score of 35-31. Their balanced offensive attack contributed to this result, with 200 passing yards and 220 rushing yards.
Against East Carolina, the Wolfpack emerged with a 24-17 victory. This game highlighted their passing strength, with 318 yards through the air, indicating a potent aerial threat.
Team Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 2-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 2-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 3: 2-0 (100.0%)
- ATS Last 5: 2-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 1-1 (50.0%)
- O/U Last 5: 1-1 (50.0%)
Wake Forest vs North Carolina State Prediction: Over 53.5
Both teams have started the season with strong offensive performances, as North Carolina State has scored 59 points and Wake Forest has scored 52 points in the first two games. This indicates that both teams possess potent offenses capable of putting up significant points. Additionally, their previous head-to-head game in 2024 resulted in a combined score of 64 points, suggesting the potential for another high-scoring game.
North Carolina State’s defense has allowed 48 points this season, while Wake Forest’s defense has allowed 19 points. Given these stats, it’s apparent that North Carolina State is more vulnerable defensively, which could result in a higher scoring game. The offensive abilities of both teams, combined with North Carolina State’s defensive struggles, support the expectation of a high total score.
Considering the statistical trends and the offensive capabilities of both squads, the over of 53.5 seems to be a promising pick. The historical matchups, recent form, and defensive vulnerabilities all point towards a game that surpasses the set total. Expect both teams to capitalize on their offensive strengths, leading to a score that exceeds expectations.
Based on these factors, the prediction for this game leans towards the over. A projected score of North Carolina State 38 – Wake Forest 31 suggests a total of 69 points, comfortably covering the over 53.5 line.
- Wake Forest vs North Carolina State Prediction: Over 53.5
- Wake Forest vs North Carolina State Score: North Carolina State 38 – Wake Forest 31
