Wake Forest lost its first game last weekend and is now 4-1 on the year. A win at home against Syracuse this week will get the Demon Deacons one step closer to that bowl berth that has eluded them for years. Syracuse is trying to continue rebuilding under new head coach Dino Babers. However, they suffered another loss to fall to 2-3 on the year. This time it was against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
Last Matchup
The Orange had gotten the better of the Demon Deacons in their last matchup, early in the season at the Carrier Dome in Syracuse. John Wolford had 373 yards passing, but his success was undone by his three interceptions in the game. Wake Forest also could not run the ball, only averaging 1.4 yards per carry in the game en route to a 30-17 loss. For Syracuse. Eric Dungey utilized the deep ball as he averaged 17 yards per pass and two touchdowns. The Orange defense also contributed a touchdown off of an interception of John Wolford.
Improved Wake Forest Run Game
Cade Carney may be set to return for the Syracuse game, but even if he does not play, the Demon Deacons still have a more effective rushing attack this season. The team already has ten rushing touchdowns and Matt Colburn currently leads the team with 337 rushing yards. They have the ability to make big plays from the backfield and can get their passing game into 3rd and short situations, which greatly helps the offense’s ability to keep drives going.
Syracuse Defense Struggling
The Orange have played some good offenses thus far this season, but giving up 62, 45, and 50 points in each of their three losses is not good, no matter how you slice it. The Orange are still looking for their first ACC win and if they are going to win in Winston-Salem, they will need to limit the big plays of the Demon Deacons and get off the field fast. If Wake Forest moves the ball consistently, it could be a long game for the Syracuse defense.
Eric Dungey’s Strong Start
All of Eric Dungey’s statistics for the Orange show success and strong play from the quarterback position. He has been able to keep pace with opposing offenses as the Orange defense has struggled. He already has 11 touchdowns on the season and is on pace for more than 30 this year. A main reason for his success is the emergence of WR Amba Etta-Tawo. The receiver has six touchdowns already and 840 yards in just five games.
Prediction
Wake Forest gets back to their winning ways due to good defense at home. Wake Forest wins it 28-17.