Wake Forest v. Florida State: Predictions

The undefeated Wake Forest Demon Deacons play host to Florida State on Saturday at 3:30 in Winston-Salem. Arguably one of Wake’s biggest home games over the past several years, with a win the Deacs are only one game away from bowl eligibility with seven remaining. Can the Deacs get it done and move to 5-0 for the first time since 2006? Let’s see what the Blogger So Dear staff thinks:

Riley: Unfortunately I don't see this one turning out favorably for Wake Forest. Florida State is in desperate need of a win and is still a very talented football team despite the 0-2 record. While I do think the defense will give Blackman some issues, the speed and talent at wide receiver will challenge our corners in a way they have not been this year.

I think FSU gets the win but fails to cover, behind a strong defense that limits the Wake Forest big plays. I'll take the Noles 31-24.

Rob: Florida State wins 31-17

I don't like this spot for the Deacs. I was really hoping that FSU would beat NC State last week and perhaps make them overlook us this week, but star safety Derwin James is already quoted as saying this is a big game for them. I like that we'll be facing an inexperienced quarterback, but this Noles team is so talented across the board. I look for Wake to hang tough for 2-3 quarters, but expect FSU to pull away late. Here's to hoping that I'm wrong and that the Deacs earn their biggest win in at least 6 years.

Bridgers: Noles win 31-17

Deacs keep it close in the first half but eventually the talent and depth of the Seminole rosters pulls away towards the end.

Elijah: Wake takes on Florida State without their starting quarterback and struggling team. Surprisingly 0-2 (missing a game due to Hurricane Irma), the Seminoles have had a poor start due to unlucky circumstances. Unfortunately, the talent gap is still a bit too much for the Deacs as Florida State gets in the win column in a very close and contested game. Seminoles 34 - Demon Deacons 24.

Ed: FSU 28-Wake 24

While I'd love to think our Deacs will go to 5-0, Florida State is winless so far and essentially this is a MUST win game for them to keep any postseason hopes alive. The crowd certainly won't rattle the Noles, and unless we can get the students to stay for the entire game instead of leaving at halftime like normal, I don't see how the Deacs have enough momentum to outlast them. With Francois out, and Tate potentially out, Wake's defense has a good chance of keeping FSU in check, but overall I think by the end of the game the physicality of the Noles is too much for Wake. Here's to hoping I'm proved wrong on Saturday.

Bart: Wake 24-23

Wake Forest boasts a top 20 defense in the country and will have an opportunity against a freshman quarterback from FSU making his first collegiate road start. While Winston is generally not known as a difficult road venue to play a football game, I expect it to be a loud and festive atmosphere as Wake enters 4-0. While FSU has a size advantage on the Deacs, I anticipate that Wake’s defensive line is going to have a great day and force some bad decisions out of the Seminole backfield. Defense will force at least three turnovers, setting the offense up with good field position. However, Wake does allow 20 points for the first time this year.

Led by a Wolford to Dortch connection and an up tempo offense relying more heavily on quick hitters (as the offense did when it was successful against App State last weekend), Wake will have success moving the football and a fourth quarter touchdown puts the Deacs ahead to stay for the 24-23 win.

BSD Average: FSU 30-22

Vegas: FSU 27-20 (FSU -7.5; O/U 47.5)

What do you think? Can Wake get it done today and move to 5-0 or will the Seminoles come in and take care of business? Regardless, I expect today to be a fun one and a competitive game. And as always, go Deacs!