Pittsburgh Panthers vs Wake Forest Demon Deacons Picks and Predictions January 27th 2026

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The Pittsburgh Panthers return home to face the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in an ACC matchup between two teams desperate to halt losing streaks. Pitt has dropped three straight and continues to struggle at the free-throw line, while Wake Forest has lost six of its last eight and is searching for toughness on the boards. With both programs looking for a reset, this contest highlights a battle of resilience and execution in conference play.

Line Movement and Odds

Wake Forest enters as a slight favorite, but Pitt’s home-court edge makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:

  • Wake Forest Spread: -2.5 (-110)
  • Pittsburgh Spread: +2.5 (-110)
  • Wake Forest MoneyLine: -145
  • Pittsburgh MoneyLine: +120
  • Total: 143.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

Pittsburgh Outlook

The Panthers average 69.4 points per game, with Brandin Cummings, Blake Hinson, and Cameron Corhen leading the offense. Cummings’ 13.1 points per game highlight his scoring, while Corhen’s 8.1 rebounds rank seventh in the ACC. Pitt’s struggles (8-12 overall record; 1-6 ACC; 66.3% FT, second-worst in ACC) underscore their weaknesses. Their ability to rebound and improve free-throw shooting will be key to staying competitive.

Wake Forest Outlook

The Demon Deacons average 73.8 points per game, with Juke Harris, Myles Colvin, and Hunter Sallis driving production. Harris’ 20.6 points per game rank third in the ACC, while Colvin’s 12.5 points provide secondary scoring. Wake Forest’s struggles (11-9 overall record; 2-5 ACC; six losses in last eight games) underscore their inconsistency. Their ability to rely on Harris’ scoring and improve toughness on loose balls gives them a chance to bounce back.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on free-throw shooting and rebounding. Pitt must improve its efficiency at the line and rely on Corhen’s rebounding, while Wake Forest must lean on Harris’ scoring and defensive intensity to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

Pittsburgh: The Panthers report no fresh injury concerns heading into Tuesday’s contest.

Wake Forest: The Demon Deacons are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

Petersen Events Center has been a steady venue for Pitt, where they’ve gone 6-5 this season. Wake Forest, however, has struggled in ACC play, making this a clash of home resilience versus visiting inconsistency.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Wake Forest 74, Pittsburgh 70

  • Wake Forest -2.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and Harris’ scoring suggest they can cover the spread.
  • Under 143.5 → Total play. Both teams’ pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Wake Forest’s depth and Harris’ scoring should carry them to victory, while Pitt’s free-throw struggles keep the spread in play. Expect a moderately high-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.

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