Preview
The Wake Forest Demon Deacons and the Georgia Bulldogs will face off in a highly anticipated matchup on Saturday, featuring two of the nation’s top defenses. Both teams have impressed on the defensive side of the ball this season, allowing just a combined 29.5 points per game.
Wake Forest Defense
The Demon Deacons defense has been a force to be reckoned with in 2023. They rank among the top 25 in the country in total defense (24th), allowing just 328.0 yards per game. Their pass defense has been particularly impressive, as they have allowed only 179.0 passing yards per game, which ranks 11th nationally.
Georgia Defense
The Bulldogs defense is equally formidable. They lead the nation in total defense, allowing just 272.7 yards per game. They have also been stingy against the run, giving up only 78.3 rushing yards per game, which is tied for the second-best mark in the FBS.
Key Matchups
This game will feature several key matchups that will likely determine the outcome.
- Wake Forest’s offense vs. Georgia’s pass defense: The Demon Deacons will need to find ways to move the ball through the air against a Georgia pass defense that has allowed just one passing touchdown all season.
- Georgia’s offense vs. Wake Forest’s run defense: The Bulldogs will rely on their powerful running game to test the Demon Deacons defense, which has allowed just 149.0 rushing yards per game.
- Georgia’s special teams vs. Wake Forest’s special teams: The Bulldogs have one of the best special teams units in the country, led by All-American punter Jake Camarda. The Demon Deacons will need to be sharp in all phases of special teams to keep up with Georgia.
Prediction
This is a tough game to predict, as both teams have strengths and weaknesses. However, the Bulldogs’ defense is simply too good to ignore. They will force the Demon Deacons into mistakes and make it difficult for them to score points.
Georgia 23, Wake Forest 14
Defensive Statistics Comparison
| Team | Total Defense | Pass Defense | Rush Defense |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wake Forest | 24th (328.0 yards/game) | 11th (179.0 yards/game) | 80th (149.0 yards/game) |
| Georgia | 1st (272.7 yards/game) | 2nd (144.3 yards/game) | 2nd (78.3 yards/game) |
Offensive Statistics Comparison
| Team | Total Offense | Passing Offense | Rushing Offense |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wake Forest | 73rd (411.8 yards/game) | 63rd (255.5 yards/game) | 38th (156.3 yards/game) |
| Georgia | 23rd (470.9 yards/game) | 51st (265.3 yards/game) | 7th (205.6 yards/game) |
Betting Odds
- Spread: Georgia -14
- Over/Under: 47.5
Conclusion
The Wake Forest vs. Georgia game is sure to be a defensive battle. Both teams have elite defenses that will make it difficult for the other team to score points. Georgia is the slight favorite in this game, but Wake Forest has the potential to pull off the upset if they can find a way to move the ball against the Bulldogs’ defense.