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Wake Forest vs American Week 1 Betting Preview
Wake Forest opens the season at home on Nov. 3 against American in Winston-Salem, N.C. The Demon Deacons are still seeking their first NCAA Tournament berth under Steve Forbes, now in his sixth season. You can compare lines anytime on the college basketball odds board
Forbes said this year’s roster will look different. Wake plans to play faster with more length and athleticism. Sophomore guard Juke Harris, who averaged 6.1 points last season, headlines the backcourt alongside Purdue transfer Myles Colvin and veteran Nate Calmese.
American, last year’s Patriot League champion, enters with a rebuilt lineup after heavy turnover. Coach Duane Simpkins said his team is longer and more athletic, led by Greg Jones, the league’s Preseason Defensive Player of the Year. The Eagles will again rely on pace and outside shooting to stay close.
For more team breakdowns, visit our NCAA basketball previews page
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Line Movement and Odds
Oddsmakers opened Wake Forest as a –7 favorite with a total near 143.5. Early action pushed the spread toward –8, showing public confidence in the Deacons. Sharp bettors have taken the Eagles at anything above +8.
Moneyline markets list Wake Forest around –340, American +270. Totals have remained stable with balanced handle. Keep up with live movement on the NCAA basketball odds page
Matchup Breakdown
Wake Forest
Wake brings size and athleticism, especially in transition. Expect Forbes’ guards to push tempo early. The team ranked top-50 nationally in effective field-goal rate last year but struggled defensively against quicker lineups.
If Wake’s wings control the glass, this could be a comfortable opener. Bettors watching efficiency and turnover rates will find value using the expert betting guide
American
The Eagles lack returning experience but defend well on the perimeter. Simpkins’ group forced turnovers on 20 percent of possessions last year and could create problems if Wake shows early rust. Depth and front-court size remain issues against ACC-level athletes.
You can track how both sides trend against the spread throughout the season through our college basketball picks section
Injuries and Conditions
Wake Forest Injury Report
No major absences reported entering the opener. For updated player statuses, check the Wake Forest team page
American Injury Report
The Eagles list no active injuries, though rotation minutes may still be in flux. Visit the American team page
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Best Bets and Prediction
Trend: Wake Forest is 13-4 ATS in its last 17 home openers. American covered five of its final seven road games last season.
Projected Score: Wake Forest 78, American 66.
Best Bet: Wake Forest –8.
Secondary Lean: Under 143.5 if tempo slows in the second half.
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