The October 11, 2025 matchup between the Wake Forest Demon Deacons and the Oregon State Beavers in Corvallis is a fascinating intersection of style, tempo, and identity, as Wake Forest’s fast-paced, play-action-heavy attack travels west to face an Oregon State team still rebuilding its foundation on physical football and defensive grit. For Wake Forest, this game is an opportunity to show that its new-look offense under head coach Jake Dickert can travel — literally and schematically — as they enter the heart of October looking to regain momentum after an up-and-down start to ACC play. The Demon Deacons have leaned on quarterback Robby Ashford, a dual-threat transfer who has brought unpredictability and energy to the offense, passing for 916 yards and rushing for 200 more through the first month of the season. His ability to extend plays and stress defenses horizontally and vertically has given Wake an identity reminiscent of their high-tempo offenses under former coach Dave Clawson. The ground game has also flashed explosiveness, particularly in their 273-yard rushing performance against Western Carolina, showing that when the offensive line sustains its blocks, Wake can control the pace and punish lighter defensive fronts. Running backs Demond Claiborne and Tate Carney have complemented Ashford’s mobility, forming a dynamic backfield capable of generating both inside and outside zone success. The offense averages just over 400 yards per game and has shown a willingness to attack early in drives to establish rhythm. However, Wake Forest’s issue has been consistency — drive-killing penalties, occasional protection breakdowns, and missed red-zone chances have limited their ability to finish close games against tougher competition. On defense, Wake Forest has been opportunistic but inconsistent, giving up over 350 yards per game and struggling to close on mobile quarterbacks and late-down conversions.

The linebacking duo of Jacob Roberts and Dylan Hazen provides leadership and physicality, while cornerback Caelen Carson remains a stabilizing force in the secondary. Oregon State, meanwhile, enters this matchup in the midst of a transitional year. The Beavers have endured offensive struggles early in the season, averaging fewer than 18 points per game, but they remain competitive thanks to a defense that continues to play with toughness under head coach Trent Bray. The Beavers’ offense has leaned on its running game, led by Damien Martinez, one of the more talented backs in the Pac-12, who has been their most reliable offensive weapon behind a young but improving offensive line. Quarterback DJ Uiagalelei’s departure left Oregon State looking for stability under center, and the passing attack has yet to find its rhythm, averaging under 200 yards per game with limited explosiveness. Defensively, Oregon State’s front seven has remained stout against the run, holding opponents to under 3.8 yards per carry, while linebackers Easton Mascarenas-Arnold and Melvin Jordan III have been tackling machines in the middle. The secondary, though talented, has given up too many intermediate completions, something Wake Forest’s quick passing game will look to exploit. For Oregon State to control this game, it must slow tempo, dominate time of possession, and force Wake into predictable third-and-long situations. If they can frustrate Ashford with pressure and keep the game low-scoring, their defense gives them a legitimate chance to grind out a home win. However, if Wake Forest finds early rhythm and starts pushing the tempo, Oregon State’s offense may not have the firepower to match drives. This clash feels like a classic battle of momentum versus discipline — if Wake can dictate pace, they’ll likely win comfortably, but if Oregon State can drag the game into the trenches and win the turnover battle, a tight, defensive struggle could unfold in Corvallis.