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SMU Mustangs vs Wake Forest Demon Deacons Game Preview
The SMU Mustangs travel to Winston-Salem to take on the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in an Atlantic Coast Conference matchup on Saturday, October 25, 2025. Kickoff is set for 3:30 PM ET at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium.
SMU enters at 5-2 overall (3-0 ACC), having extended its conference winning streak to 11 games after defeating Clemson 35-24 last week. The Mustangs remain one of only three undefeated teams in ACC play, joining Georgia Tech and Virginia.
Wake Forest (4-2, 1-2 ACC) returns home after back-to-back road wins at Virginia Tech and Oregon State, looking to hand SMU its first conference loss of the season.
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Line Movement and Betting Odds
SMU Moneyline: -162
Wake Forest Moneyline: +136
SMU Spread: -3.0 (-110)
Wake Forest Spread: +3.0 (-110)
Total Over/Under: 57.0 (-110)
SMU opened as a small road favorite, with the market reflecting confidence in its balanced offense. Early sharp action has slightly pushed the total upward, anticipating both quarterbacks to create chunk plays downfield.
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Matchup Breakdown
SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings has transitioned into a pure pocket passer this season, throwing for 1,948 yards and 17 touchdowns to just four interceptions. Despite playing through an ankle injury last week, he threw for 290 yards and two scores in the win at Clemson. The Mustangs are averaging more than 36 points per game and rank near the top of the ACC in total offense.
Head coach Rhett Lashlee’s offense emphasizes tempo and efficiency, with receivers Jordan Hudson and Key’Shawn Smith both surpassing 400 yards on the year. Defensively, SMU thrives on third-down pressure, ranking among the ACC’s top units in sacks and tackles for loss.
Wake Forest, meanwhile, is improving offensively behind backup quarterback Deshawn Purdie, who tossed four touchdowns in the team’s 39-14 victory at Oregon State — the most by a Demon Deacon since 2022. Starting quarterback Robby Ashford (thumb) has been limited in practice, and his status remains uncertain. Running back Justice Ellison anchors a ground attack averaging 176 yards per game, while wideout Jahmal Banks leads the team in receptions and touchdowns.
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Key Storylines
SMU continues to chase perfection in conference play, having won every regular-season ACC game since joining the league. The Mustangs’ passing game has evolved, with Jennings’ accuracy and decision-making giving them one of the conference’s most efficient offenses.
Wake Forest looks to build on its two-game winning streak and establish consistency at home. The Demon Deacons’ defense, which has forced six turnovers over its last three games, must find a way to limit SMU’s explosive passing attack.
Saturday’s meeting will test whether Wake’s defensive front can contain Jennings’ quick release and whether SMU can maintain its flawless ACC run away from home.
Injury Report
SMU Mustangs:
Quarterback Kevin Jennings (ankle) played through discomfort last week but is expected to start. The team reports no new significant injuries on offense or defense.
Full injury report for SMU Mustangs
Wake Forest Demon Deacons:
Quarterback Robby Ashford (thumb) remains questionable after limited practice participation. Defensive back Brendan Harris (shoulder) and running back Demond Claiborne (ankle) are also questionable, while wide receiver Horatio Fields Jr. (knee) is expected to return.
Full injury report for Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Prediction
SMU’s balanced offense and passing efficiency should test Wake Forest’s secondary, especially if Ashford remains limited. The Demon Deacons’ recent momentum and home environment could keep things competitive early, but the Mustangs’ rhythm and execution give them the upper hand late.
Projected Score: SMU 34, Wake Forest 27
Best Bet: SMU -3.0 (-110)
Secondary Lean: Over 57.0 (-110)
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