Cal vs Wake Forest – CFB Predictions and Picks For November 8, 2024

This Friday, the California Golden Bears and Wake Forest Demon Deacons face off in a prime-time ACC matchup with exciting offensive potential.

As Cal navigates another cross-country trip in a season packed with travel challenges, Wake Forest looks to capitalize on home-field advantage. Here’s a full game breakdown, including insights into both teams’ form and betting predictions.

Game Details

Date: Friday, November 8, 2024
Time: 8:00 PM ET
Broadcast: ACC Network
Location: Truist Field, Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Spread: Cal -7 | Total: 56.5

Team Overview and Season Performance

Cal Golden Bears (4-4)

Tough Travel Schedule: Cal is facing its fourth cross-country trip of the season. With their schedule taking a toll on players, especially on short rest, Cal could struggle with endurance against Wake Forest.

Strength in Offense: Despite challenges, Cal’s offense has been reliable, especially after scoring over 40 points last week against Oregon State. They’ve shown they can capitalize on weaker defenses, which aligns well for them against a Wake Forest defense that has struggled this season.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons (4-4)

Inconsistent Defense: Wake Forest’s defense ranks among the lowest nationally, especially against the pass. Teams like NC State and Louisiana have exploited their secondary, and while recent games against low-scoring opponents might paint a better picture, Cal’s stronger offense will test Wake Forest’s defensive limitations.

Potential Edge in the Running Game: Wake’s running back Deontay Clayborn has returned to form, posting 127 yards against Stanford. Cal has a stronger pass defense than run defense, which could give Wake Forest’s ground game an advantage, allowing them to control the tempo and keep up with Cal’s scoring.

Key Matchup Analysis

Scoring Potential and Defensive Weaknesses: Both teams have shown weaknesses on defense that could lead to a high-scoring game. Cal’s offense can stretch the field, especially against Wake Forest’s vulnerable pass defense, while Wake’s running game should also find success against Cal’s defensive front.

Travel and Preparation Advantage for Wake: Cal’s fourth East Coast trip and short preparation time give Wake Forest a slight edge, which could be crucial in a game with close scoring margins.

Betting Predictions and Picks

Spread Pick: Lean Wake Forest +7. Although the line is close, Wake Forest’s offensive balance, combined with Cal’s travel fatigue, could help them cover the spread.

Total Points: Over 54.5. With two defenses that have struggled and offenses that are capable of scoring, this matchup is likely to surpass the set total, making the over a strong choice.

Conclusion

This ACC matchup between Cal and Wake Forest is poised to be a high-scoring affair, with both teams ready to capitalize on defensive gaps.

Wake Forest’s home advantage and recent return to form in the run game may help them cover the spread, while the over on total points offers a favorable bet. Fans can anticipate an exciting game that highlights each team’s offensive strengths.

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