As we head into Week 2 of the NCAAF season, a compelling matchup awaits between the Virginia Cavaliers and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. Both teams are off to a victorious start and are eager to keep the momentum going. This Saturday night game is set to take place at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 7:00 PM ET. Broadcasting live on ESPN2, this game is not just about securing a 2-0 start—it’s about setting a tone in the ACC, and our exclusive free NCAAF predictions aim to give you the inside track on the likely outcome.
Virginia Cavaliers vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons 9/7/24 Game Info |
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| When: | Saturday, September 7, 2024, at 07:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium |
| TV: | ESPN2 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Virginia Cavaliers (1-0) vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons (1-0)
The Virginia Cavaliers approach this game after with a satisfactory performance on the season opener, particularly in the rushing and receiving categories. Running back Kobe Pace was impressive rushing for a total of 93 yards on 11 carries, a commendable average of 8.5 yards per carry and a rushing touchdown. With such efficiency, it is also easy to envision him as a player the Cavaliers would want to exploit mismatches. Just like what happened during the LIU vs TCU game today where there were numerous explosive rushing plays, such short passes would very much be the order of the day. On the other hand, while on the receiving front, it was Malachi Fields who stood out with 100 yards receiving from five catches averaging 20 yards a catch making him a real threat for big plays even if he did not score any touchdown.
On the other hand, Wake Forest showcased their balanced attack as an offensive weapon. Running the football, Demond Claiborne excelled with 135 yards rushing in 17 attempts for an impressive average of 7.9 yards per carry with a long of 48 and one score on the ground. The way he bulldozes over the defenders is somewhat similar to the strategies that took shape in the rushing onslaught that was featured in the Appalachian State vs. Clemson game earlier today. Wideout Taylor Morin was also productive in the passing game, catching the ball six times for 100 yards with an average of 16.7 yards per catch.
Anthony Colandrea (Virginia) QB vs. Hank Bachmeier (Wake Forest) QB
Anthony Colandrea has established himself as a playmaker, Virginia’s starting quarterback, with eight aids from 297 passing yards and a 73.9% completion rate. Furthermore, Colandrea averages all of 12.9 yards per attempt and is quite adept at throwing the ball in a way that leads to two touchdown passes. In contrast to his peers, Colandrea’s keen passing judgment coupled with his calm demeanor and a passer rating of 211.1 makes him a great asset and more so a leader in the field. Semantically, in the area of sabotage, Colandrea is unfortunate as he registers -29 sack yards which is an opportunity that Wake Forest is likely to capitalize on.
Relative to that situation, Hank Bachmeier has also proved that he can be instrumental in moving the chains for Wake Forest. Calm with the ball, despite the lack of offensive support around him, he managed to pass for 263 yards on 64.3% efficiency while throwing three touchdown passes. He does this so as not to have secondary breakdowns in which he gives up the ball, which might even further put pressure on the opponents. ImageBachmeier had to be pulled safety due to timidity. Here, despite the loss of a sack, Bachmeier’s loss of yards was minimal signifying the offensive line was good and their release mechanisms were swift which are very effective against Virginia’s type of possessing defence.
NCAAF Odds/Point Spread: Wake Forest -1, Total Odds: 55.5
The current betting odds suggest a tight contest, with Wake Forest favored by just a single point. The total over/under is set at 55.5, reflecting expectations for a moderately high-scoring game based on both teams’ offensive capabilities. Bettors interested in exploiting these odds will contend with the fairly balanced matchup, making the point spread less reliable but possibly offering opportunities in point totals.
Virginia Cavaliers Betting Trends
Virginia’s betting trends show an encouraging 8-2 ATS record over their last 10 games, alongside a consistent spread-covering performance, especially on the road with a 5-1 ATS streak. However, their struggles against Wake Forest, both SU and ATS, could be a deciding factor in wagering decisions. The trend of high game totals, with the total going over in five of their last six outings, suggests a propensity for shootouts that could influence betting strategies focused on the over/under.
Wake Forest Demon Deacons Betting Trends
Wake Forest’s betting profile offers a mixed bag of 1-5 ATS in their recent games and struggles being reiterated in past bouts with their ACC rivals. However, the trend of games going over in total points in five of their last six encounters indicates offensive potential that mustn’t be overlooked. Their historically poor home performance ATS could serve as a warning for those inclined to back the Deacons heavily in this setting.
Virginia Cavaliers vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons 9/7/24 Betting Picks
Overall, Virginia’s recent form against the spread, coupled with their documented issues against Wake Forest, creates an enticing dynamic for bettors. While their consistent road performance adds a layer of intrigue, meeting a Wake Forest side that’s equally motivated might deter firm backings. It’s advisable to consider the spread cautiously, focusing instead on totals.
Examining prop bets, the teams’ past inclinations to surpass expected totals implies valuable opportunities in over/under considerations. Given the offensive weapons on both sides, a total points play could be the premium sports analysis alternative, banking on both teams continuing their trend of high-scoring games.