Wake Forest hosts #18 Clemson

After turning in one of their finer defensive performances of the season Saturday, #18 Clemson will attempt to remain in the thick of the ACC Atlantic Division race Thursday when they travel to Wake Forest. According to the oddsmakers at America's Bookie, Clemson is a 13-point road favorite and the total is 53.

Ever since their 70-33 humiliation against West Virginia in last season's Orange Bowl, Clemson has struggled to keep opponents off the scoreboard even as their offense has thrived. However, the Tigers allowed a season-low in points to an FBS school and forced four turnovers in last weekend's 38-17 home win against Virginia Tech and can move into a tie with Florida State in their division with a victory. Wake Forest, 3-1 at home this season, snapped a two-game slide with a 16-10 road win against Virginia.

There is still much room for improvement under new defensive coordinator Brent Venables as Clemson still surrendered 406 yards against Virginia Tech, but his charges have forced 15 turnovers this season. Jonathan Meeks recorded his first two interceptions of the season – taking one back for a touchdown – to help offset a 295-yard outing from the offense, more than 230 yards below Clemson's season average entering the contest. One slight concern for Clemson has to be the five sacks they surrendered to Virginia Tech after allowing only 10 over the first six games.

Wake Forest had allowed 31.0 points and more than 206 rushing yards per game before last week, then they turned in their best defensive performance of season by holding Virginia to 10 points and 48 yards rushing. Although not known as a particularly explosive or quick-strike offense, Wake Forest needed only 6 and 17 seconds on their first two scoring drives against Virginia. Leading wide receiver Michael Campanaro (hand) is not expected to return until at least November 3 against Boston College.

Wake Forest usually plays well against good teams, especially at home. The Demon Deacons are 15-5-2 ATS in their last 22 home games when playing against a team with a winning road record and 5-2 ATS in their last seven conference games.

Clemson is 1-4-1 ATS in their last six meetings in Wake Forest. Clemson will win this game but Wake Forest will cover at home. Take Wake Forest +13.

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