Wake Forest’s Latest Blowout Makes Its Playoff Case Harder to Ignore

Wake Forest has dominated three consecutive games, showcasing a potent offense that has elevated their playoff case. Earlier this week, the Demon Deacons dispatched SMU 49-7 in Dallas, extending their seven-game winning streak to seven victories. The win improved Wake Forest's overall record to 9-1 and 6-1 in conference play. Ranked No. 13 in the College Football Playoff standings, the team returned home with another impressive result that could catch the selection committee's eye.

Over the last three contests, Wake Forest has amassed 177 points, averaging 59 points per game. Their scoring surge includes a 51-7 victory over Virginia, a 77-0 triumph against Merrimack, and Saturday's comprehensive shutout of SMU. Together, these opponents amassed only 14 points. The Demon Deacons' performance at SMU was particularly noteworthy, as they outscored the Mustangs 49-7, despite SMU being undefeated in ACC home games.

By halftime, SMU trailed 42-0, with Wake Forest scoring four touchdowns in the second quarter alone.

Head coach Jake Dickert urged his team to maintain their momentum, stating, "We’re not finished with them yet. We came for 60 minutes and they’ve got nowhere to hide." Quarterback Gio Lopez contributed 201 passing yards and two touchdowns, while scoring twice on the ground. Carlos Hernandez added 44 yards and a touchdown on a 44-yard pass from Lopez, and finished with 94 receiving yards.

Backed by a powerful running game, Ty Clark III rushed for 77 yards and four touchdowns, Jamar Searcy, Deuce Lawrence, and backup quarterback Steele Pizzella also contributed with rushing touchdowns.

Defensively, Wake Forest put up a formidable challenge, limiting SMU to a mere 275 total yards, with just 66 rushing yards. The Demon Deacons outgained SMU 535 to 275 in total yards. SMU's lone touchdown occurred in the third quarter, well before the Demon Deacons had secured their commanding lead. As Wake Forest prepares to face Georgia Tech next, their six-game winning streak and impressive scoring have given the committee ample reason to consider them in the playoff discussion.