The Wake Forest Demon Deacons return to Truist Field on November 15, 2025, determined to defend their home turf and play spoiler against a high-flying North Carolina team in what has become one of the ACC’s most entertaining regional rivalries. Under head coach Dave Clawson, the Demon Deacons continue to embody consistency and offensive ingenuity, using their signature slow-mesh scheme to keep defenses off balance and exploit overpursuing linebackers. Despite a transitional year following roster turnover, Wake Forest’s offense remains productive, averaging over 28 points per game behind veteran quarterback Hank Bachmeier, who brings experience, composure, and leadership to the huddle. Bachmeier has thrown for more than 2,700 yards and 19 touchdowns, executing Clawson’s intricate timing routes with precision. His ability to manipulate defenses with the slow-mesh read has allowed Wake to remain efficient even against faster, more athletic defenses. Wide receiver Jahmal Banks has emerged as Bachmeier’s top target, using his 6-foot-4 frame to dominate contested catches and lead the team in both receptions and yards, while fellow wideout Taylor Morin continues to be a reliable possession receiver who thrives in intermediate zones. Running back Demond Claiborne provides the necessary balance, rushing for over 800 yards and eight touchdowns, showcasing exceptional vision and burst through tight lanes created by Wake’s veteran offensive line led by guard Sean Maginn and tackle DeVonte Gordon. Against a North Carolina defense that has struggled with consistency and surrendering explosive plays, the Demon Deacons will look to control tempo, win time of possession, and force the Tar Heels’ front seven into overcommitment with play-action misdirection. On defense, Wake Forest has endured its share of growing pains, allowing close to 30 points per game, but defensive coordinator Brad Lambert’s unit remains aggressive and opportunistic.

Linebacker Chase Jones has been a tackling machine and vocal leader, while safety Malik Mustapha anchors the secondary with his physical play and knack for forcing turnovers. The key for Wake Forest’s defense will be limiting UNC’s explosive passing game — particularly containing deep threat Tez Walker and slowing down running back Omarion Hampton, who thrives on yards after contact. Expect the Demon Deacons to mix coverages, blitz selectively, and rely on strong communication in the secondary to prevent big plays. Wake’s defense has performed best at home, where crowd energy has fueled key stops in clutch moments. Special teams could also play a pivotal role, as kicker Matthew Dennis has been reliable in close games, and return man Ke’Shawn Williams adds a potential spark in the field position battle. From a betting perspective, Wake Forest has covered the spread in five of its last nine home games, often exceeding expectations as an underdog — a position Clawson’s teams traditionally embrace. The Demon Deacons’ disciplined offense and opportunistic defense make them dangerous in high-scoring contests, especially if they can start fast and keep North Carolina’s explosive offense on the sidelines. For Wake Forest to spring the upset, Bachmeier must sustain drives with accuracy, Claiborne must establish balance on the ground, and the defense must generate pressure without giving up deep shots. This matchup’s high-scoring history suggests another offensive shootout, and Wake’s experience in close games at home gives them a puncher’s chance. Prediction: North Carolina 41, Wake Forest 31 — the Deacons battle with grit and precision, staying competitive deep into the fourth quarter, but ultimately fall short as UNC’s offensive depth and late-game execution prove too much to overcome.