The Virginia Cavaliers and Wake Forest Demon Deacons are set to clash in an intriguing ACC matchup on September 7, 2024, at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium. Both teams have started their seasons with convincing wins, setting the stage for a competitive showdown. Virginia comes into this game after a solid 34-13 win over Richmond, where quarterback Anthony Colandrea was efficient, completing 17 of 23 passes for 297 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. The Cavaliers’ offense was complemented by a strong rushing performance from Kobe Pace, who rushed for 93 yards and a touchdown. However, Virginia’s defense will be put to a much sterner test against a high-powered Wake Forest offense.

Wake Forest opened their season with a dominant 45-13 victory over North Carolina A&T. New transfer quarterback Hank Bachmeir made an immediate impact, throwing for 263 yards and three touchdowns without a turnover. Running back Demond Claiborne added 135 rushing yards and a touchdown, showcasing the balanced attack Wake Forest can deploy. The Demon Deacons’ defense, however, allowed 121 rushing yards to North Carolina A&T’s top rusher, suggesting a potential vulnerability that Virginia might exploit. This game will likely come down to which team can better execute on both sides of the ball. Virginia will need to replicate their balanced offensive attack while tightening up their defense to limit big plays from Wake Forest. Conversely, Wake Forest’s ability to sustain their offensive efficiency and improve defensively against the run could determine their chances of covering the spread at home.