NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Virginia Cavaliers vs Wake Forest Demon Deacons Game Preview
The Virginia Cavaliers have become one of the most compelling stories in college football, sitting at 8–1 and ranked No. 14 nationally. Now, they’ll look to maintain focus and avoid distractions when they host the Wake Forest Demon Deacons on Saturday night at Scott Stadium.
Virginia (8–1, 5–0 ACC) is the only unbeaten team left in conference play, putting them in control of their ACC destiny. Their seven-game winning streak — including three overtime victories — marks the program’s best start in 35 years. The Cavaliers have thrived under Tony Elliott’s steady leadership, combining efficiency on offense with a disciplined, opportunistic defense.
Wake Forest (5–3, 2–3 ACC), meanwhile, faces a pivotal test after suffering a 42–7 blowout loss to Florida State. First-year head coach Jake Dickert called this week “a culture test,” challenging his players to respond after penalties, turnovers, and defensive lapses derailed their Tallahassee trip.
For up-to-date numbers and market movement, visit the NCAAF odds and scores board.
Turn Insights Into Winning Tickets
Built for Bettors Who Think Ahead
Odds and Key Information
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Spread | Virginia –12.5 / Wake Forest +12.5 |
| Moneyline | Virginia –475 / Wake Forest +375 |
| Total (O/U) | 51.0 points |
| Venue | Scott Stadium, Charlottesville, VA |
| Time | Saturday, Nov. 8, 7:00 PM ET |
| Broadcast | ACC Network |
Virginia is 5–0 in ACC play for the first time in school history, while Wake Forest has lost eight straight games against ranked opponents.
Virginia Outlook
The Virginia Cavaliers are hitting their stride with a complete, balanced team built around efficient quarterback play and a resilient defense.
Quarterback Chandler Morris has been the steadying force for Tony Elliott’s offense, throwing for 2,069 yards and 16 total touchdowns while avoiding costly turnovers. Running back J’Mari Taylor has powered the ground game with 686 yards and 11 touchdowns, giving the Cavaliers one of the ACC’s most consistent backfield tandems.
Defensively, Virginia ranks among the conference’s top five in both scoring and total defense. The Cavaliers have allowed just 19.4 points per game while holding opponents under 100 rushing yards in three straight contests. Their ability to tighten in the red zone and force timely takeaways has defined their seven-game winning streak.
Coach Elliott’s main concern entering Week 11 isn’t tactical — it’s psychological. “You’re going to get a lot more messages after every game. A lot more people are going to want to be a part of what’s going on,” he warned earlier this week. “That becomes a distraction.” If the Cavaliers remain composed, they’re well-positioned to extend their ACC dominance.
Wake Forest Outlook
The Wake Forest Demon Deacons enter Week 11 searching for consistency after being dominated by Florida State. Still, their season has shown glimpses of potential — particularly in narrow losses against ranked opponents.
Running back Demond Claiborne continues to be the engine of the offense, rushing for 639 yards and eight touchdowns this season. His elusiveness and burst will be essential against a Virginia defense that thrives on limiting chunk plays.
At quarterback, Jake Dickert has rotated between Robby Ashford and Deshawn Purdie, both of whom bring mobility but limited downfield consistency. That unpredictability can make the Demon Deacons dangerous but also error-prone. Against top defenses this season, Wake Forest has struggled to sustain drives — averaging just 4.8 yards per play in ACC competition.
On defense, Wake Forest has playmakers but remains undisciplined. Eleven penalties and multiple missed tackles hurt them last week, and cleaning that up will be mandatory to stay competitive in Charlottesville.
Key Storylines
Virginia’s maturity test – With national attention and playoff implications building, the Cavaliers must avoid the mental traps that often derail late-season contenders.
Wake Forest’s resilience – After its worst loss under Dickert, Wake Forest faces a gut check. A competitive showing would reestablish locker-room belief heading into the final stretch.
Battle in the trenches – Virginia’s offensive line has dominated during its win streak, but Wake’s front seven ranks top 25 nationally in tackles for loss. This matchup could determine the tone early.
Program growth – A win would mark Virginia’s first eight-game win streak in a single season in over a century — a potential statement of how far the program has come under Elliott.
Betting Trends
- Virginia is 8–1 straight up in its last nine games.
- The Cavaliers are 5–0 straight up in ACC play this season.
- Wake Forest is 2–6 ATS in its last eight games against ranked teams.
- The Demon Deacons have gone under the total in four of their last five road games.
- Virginia is 7–2 ATS in its last nine home contests.
Explore more trend analysis in the NFL expert betting guide.
Get the Power of 50+ Sports Analysts
Every Matchup. Every League. Every Day.
Predictions
The Virginia Cavaliers appear too balanced and disciplined for the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, who are still finding their footing under a new staff. Expect Wake Forest to keep things close early, but Virginia’s offensive rhythm and defensive efficiency should take over after halftime.
Projected score: Virginia 34, Wake Forest 17
Spread pick: Virginia –12.5
Total lean: Under 51.0
Virginia stays perfect in ACC play with a statement win at home, continuing its quiet but steady rise toward the conference title game.
Why You Need Expert Picks
As playoff contenders tighten their grip and motivation spikes, late-season conference lines shift fast. Track performance data on the Handicappers Leaderboard and check updated NCAAF picks before kickoff.
For deeper insights on spread modeling and total trends, dive into the NFL expert betting guide.
