Inheriting one of the worst defensive units in the country is the primary concern for new Wake Forest coach Jake Dickert, and that side of the ball will remain a work in progress. But the former Washington State coach was known for engaging in and winning shootouts at his former stop. But behind capable transfer QB Robby Ashford and one of the top RBs in the ACC in Demond Claiborne, the Deacons should have some success in Dickert’s up-tempo offense. NC State just gave up 514 yards of total offense and had to overcome a double-digit deficit against what should prove to be a mediocre Virginia club. The Wolfpack could be in a bit of a letdown spot following that taxing effort

Maybe every book has 7.5 for this ACC matchup on Thursday by later today, but maybe this is an outlier so I want to get it now. I don't think NC State is 7 points better on the road on a quick turnaround. The Wolfpack players might be gassed after a wild win over Virginia on Saturday. Wake has played two FCS teams, so no clue what the Deacs are under new coach Jake Dickert, formerly of Wazzu. Our model has NCSU by 4. ESPN SP+ has the Pack only a point better. Sagarin has it 6.5. This is why I want the hook. Wake won 34-30 in Raleigh last year.