The Wake Forest Demon Deacons play host to the Clemson Tigers on Saturday afternoon in a crucial ACC showdown from Truist Field. These could be the two top teams in the ACC this year and with what Wake Forest has been building towards, this could be the season for them to take down the Tigers and make a run at the conference title. Both teams are 3-0 heading into this one, with Clemson already having one ACC win under their belt. Last season, Clemson came away with a 21-point win, and considering their dominance in the series, all of the momentum will be shifting Clemson's way in this one.
For Clemson, years of dominating the ACC has given way to the idea that they'll be tough to take down, even when they hit the road. If anything though, the last few seasons have shown that this team is human, which means they'll need to be on top of their game as they hit the road in this one. The season started slowly against Georgia Tech but a strong second half saw them still come away with a 31-point win. The last two weeks have seen them grab wins at home against Furman and Louisiana Tech, while Saturday will provide a whole new challenge on the road. The Tigers have an experienced group themselves but if they take Wake Forest lightly, it could come back in a big way to halt their season in its steps.
The Tigers do have a few injuries and potential absences that could hurt them on the road in this. On the defensive side, the line could be most impacted. Xavier Thomas (foot) is out, while Justin Foster (un disclosed) is questionable. Eyes remain mainly on the status of Bryan Breese (personal), who missed the last game due to a death in his family. If he's unable to go, he'll be missed, though this team has the talent to overcome.
In records dating back to 1950, no Clemson Tiger had ever rushed for multiple touchdowns in the first three games of the season…until now. ?? pic.twitter.com/maOPTJIzAP
— Clemson Football (@ClemsonFB) September 21, 2022
Clemson's offense stalled last season and while it hasn't exactly turned heads this go-around, it remains a dangerous group. Last season in this meeting, the Tigers put up nearly 50 points, and with so much coming back, this is a group that is bound to make things interesting.at the quarterback position, they have a dual threat that can keep defenses honest, though everything starts and ends at the running back position. Will Shipley has been instrumental this season in setting the tone and if he’s able to get going early in this one, it’ll be crucial.
On the defensive side, this remains one of the best groups in the country and for good reason. The depth of this group is really what sets them apart from the competition, as well as their athleticism. It helps that they aren’t strangers to Wake Forest and while the Demon Deacons have an impressive offense themselves, this group has the defensive line to wrea k havoc in the backfield. Expect them to try to disrupt things early and if they find success, to ride that to victory.