This is a significant matchup, everyone. The Virginia Cavaliers will make the 200-mile journey south to Winston-Salem on Saturday for their first conference game of the 2024 season. With odds nearly even, the outcome of this game could greatly influence the team’s trajectory for the entire year.
Wake Forest had a comparable opening week to UVA, defeating in-state FCS opponent North Carolina A&T, 45-13. Even with a slow start, they played it conservatively and kept their play calls straightforward.
It’s important to note the Wake coaching staff has been quite stable, led by Dave Clawson, who is entering his 11th season as head coach. This consistency gives us a clear understanding of their style and approach to games. For instance, Warren Ruggiero’s “mesh” offense is a defining characteristic of their play, even with some roster changes.
The Cavaliers and Deacons don’t often face each other, but Wake holds a five-game winning streak in their series, extending back to 2008. Four of those victories have occurred during the Clawson era, the latest being a 37-17 win in Charlottesville in 2021.
Three Players to Watch
QB Hank Bachmeier
For the dedicated college football fans, yes, he is still in the mix. Bachmeier is entering his sixth year as a starter at the FBS level, now with Wake Forest.
He spent his first four seasons at Boise State, where his statistics were solid but not spectacular. He continued that trend in eight starts last season at Louisiana Tech. Ultimately, his performance earned him a starting role at a Power-Four school, which brings us to the present.
Bachmeier is a good fit for Ruggerio’s system, as he can make quick decisions and extend plays in tight situations. However, he has typically struggled with accuracy. Even in the game against NC A&T, where his stats look decent, there were moments when his ball placement was off, which hindered potential big plays.
It’s also worth mentioning that Wake’s other quarterback, Michael Kern, could see playtime. Although Bachmeier is projected to start, he is under close observation and has little margin for error.
If Dave Clawson doesn't start Hank Bachmeier on Saturday, I will be shocked.
His deep ball is more accurate than Kern's, he extends plays with ease, he can move around the pocket well and the run game was as effective, if not more effective, when he was in the game. pic.twitter.com/dOpSKMZM4s
— Trey Kelleher (@treykelleher3) September 4, 2024
RB Demond Claiborne
Claiborne shared the workload with Justice Ellison during his sophomore year. In 2024, he has taken full ownership of the backfield and has made an impressive start, rushing for 135 yards and a touchdown on 17 carries against NC A&T.
He’s not one to dance around; Claiborne accelerates downhill swiftly and powerfully, maintaining strong balance throughout. Virginia’s defense will need to stay disciplined and ensure they wrap up tackles, as Claiborne has the ability to break off big plays.
He will likely handle most of the carries on first and second downs, while Tate Carney will serve as the main receiving and blocking back.
DC1. https://t.co/ySXrDjSAi9 pic.twitter.com/zKVMkHcxNN
— Wake Forest Football (@WakeFB) August 29, 2024
DL Jasheen Davis
Davis was Wake’s only defensive player selected for the top two preseason all-conference teams. Over his extensive career, he has recorded 21 sacks and 40.5 tackles for loss.
He typically positions himself at the LEO spot, aiming to pressure the edge. With an explosive first step and a variety of pass rush techniques, he poses a significant challenge. UVA’s left tackle, McKale Boley, who is anticipated to return from injury for this game, will face a tough matchup.
Good thing Kevin Pointer got there or he'd trail Jasheen Davis by 2 sacks for the team lead. pic.twitter.com/VaJYEFuwI9
— Deacons Illustrated (@WakeRivals) September 2, 2024
Two Matchups
Virginia Run Game vs. Wake Forest Defensive Front
Throughout the preseason, discussions highlighted Virginia’s need for more consistency in their running game, even with a limited roster at running back. While they started strong with 200 yards on 37 carries against Richmond, this matchup against Wake will be crucial.
After ranking among the bottom three in the ACC for run defense last season, the Demon Deacons allowed 185 rushing yards to NC A&T. Given Anthony Colandrea’s dual-threat capability, it appears that Virginia may have the advantage in this battle.
The Cavaliers’ offensive line will need to establish dominance early. It’s likely that their strategy will lean toward running to set up passing plays.
Wake Forest Wideouts vs. Virginia Secondary
Unlike Richmond’s passing attack, which was nearly nonexistent aside from Nick DeGennaro, Wake boasts a deep and experienced receiving corps.
Leading the group is Taylor Morin, who has recorded over 500 receiving yards in each of the past three seasons. Morin is one of those smaller yet incredibly athletic players who always finds open space and can take it to the house if defenders don’t keep pace.
Following him is Donovan Greene, who brings a longer frame and a vertical threat. Although Greene has struggled with injuries, he is highly explosive when healthy.
Also watch for Horatio Fields, who is poised for a breakout season, and Deuce Alexander, who had several key plays in the season opener.
This matchup will serve as a solid test for UVA’s secondary, which has several potential contributors but hasn’t fully solidified its lineup yet.
One Prediction
If you plan to watch this game, don’t expect it to be a stress-free experience. It will likely be a back-and-forth battle filled with excitement, with both Kobe Pace and Claiborne making impactful runs.
Ultimately, Virginia’s dynamic quarterback gives them a slight edge. While Colandrea might start cautiously with conservative play calls, his competitive nature will shine through when it matters most, leading UVA to a 2-0 record.
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