Clemson vs. Wake Forest 2024: An ACC Showdown
The Clemson Tigers and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons may not have the storied rivalry of some other college football programs, but their matchups have become a compelling part of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) landscape. Whether it’s Clemson’s reign of dominance or Wake Forest’s recent rise under head coach Dave Clawson, this game showcases the evolving nature of ACC football.
A Tale of Two Programs
Clemson is a football powerhouse, especially under head coach Dabo Swinney. Since his promotion to head coach in 2008, Clemson has experienced a golden era, winning multiple ACC titles and national championships. With high-level recruiting, a high-octane offense, and a defense known for its toughness, the Tigers have been the class of the conference for much of the last decade.
Wake Forest, on the other hand, is often seen as the underdog in these matchups. Despite being a smaller school, Wake has consistently punched above its weight in recent years, becoming a formidable ACC team. Head coach Dave Clawson, who took over in 2014, has methodically built the program with disciplined play, an innovative offensive system, and player development that has made the Demon Deacons a tough out for any opponent.
Clemson’s Dominance in the Series
When looking at the head-to-head record, Clemson has thoroughly dominated this series. As of 2023, Clemson holds a lopsided advantage with 71 wins to Wake Forest’s 17. The Tigers have won every meeting between the two teams since 2009, often in convincing fashion.
But the numbers don’t tell the full story. While Clemson’s victories have often been decisive, Wake Forest has slowly been closing the gap. The Demon Deacons have improved their competitiveness in recent years, especially with a more dynamic offense and a well-coached team.
2022: A Near Wake Forest Upset
One of the most memorable recent games between the two programs came in 2022 when Clemson narrowly escaped with a 51-45 victory in double overtime. Wake Forest, led by quarterback Sam Hartman, gave the Tigers all they could handle, taking advantage of Clemson’s secondary with a barrage of deep passes and precision offense.
Hartman threw for an astounding 337 yards and 6 touchdowns, pushing Clemson to the brink of defeat. The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams exchanging scores. Clemson’s defense, while usually dominant, struggled to contain Wake’s passing attack. However, the Tigers’ offense, led by quarterback DJ Uiagalelei, kept pace, and in the end, Clemson’s depth and experience proved too much in the pressure-packed overtime.
That game signaled that Wake Forest was no longer content to simply be an also-ran in the ACC. Instead, they had proven that they could go toe-to-toe with one of the nation’s elite programs.
Wake Forest’s Rise Under Dave Clawson
The rise of Wake Forest under Dave Clawson has been one of the more impressive stories in college football. Clawson, known for his methodical approach, has turned Wake Forest into a consistent contender in the ACC. The team’s success is largely built on his “slow-mesh” offense, which is a unique version of the RPO (run-pass option) system. This style of offense is difficult to defend, as it forces defenses to make quick decisions, often leading to big plays in the passing game.
Wake Forest’s recruiting may not be at the level of Clemson’s, but Clawson has found a way to maximize the talent on his roster. Players like Sam Hartman, wide receiver A.T. Perry, and a host of under-the-radar recruits have developed into standout performers under Clawson’s watch. This player development, combined with a commitment to playing disciplined football, has made Wake Forest a team that can compete with anyone in the ACC.
Keys to the Matchup
When Clemson and Wake Forest meet, several key factors often determine the outcome:
Quarterback Play: Clemson has traditionally fielded top-tier quarterbacks, from Deshaun Watson to Trevor Lawrence, and in recent years, Cade Klubnik and DJ Uiagalelei. For Wake Forest, the presence of Sam Hartman in previous years was a game-changer, but with his departure, the Demon Deacons will look to newer talent to drive their offense. Whoever wins the quarterback battle often wins the game.
Clemson’s Defense: Clemson’s defense has been the backbone of their success. Known for producing NFL-caliber talent, particularly along the defensive line, Clemson can control the pace of the game by pressuring opposing quarterbacks. However, Wake Forest’s creative offensive schemes can challenge even the best defenses, as seen in the 2022 near-upset.
Turnover Battle: One way that Wake Forest has been able to hang with top teams is by winning the turnover battle. If they can limit their mistakes and force Clemson into errors, they can keep the game close and potentially pull off an upset.
Time of Possession: Wake Forest’s unique offensive style often allows them to control the clock, keeping opposing offenses off the field. If the Demon Deacons can sustain long drives and keep Clemson’s explosive offense on the sidelines, they’ll improve their chances of winning.
The Future of the Matchup
The Clemson vs. Wake Forest game is becoming more intriguing as the competitive balance in the ACC continues to shift. Clemson remains the standard-bearer for the conference, but Wake Forest is part of a group of teams closing the gap. As Wake’s program continues to develop under Clawson, and as Clemson seeks to maintain its elite status, the future of this matchup promises more competitive games and potential upsets.
While Clemson still dominates the series historically, Wake Forest’s recent performances suggest that the days of blowout wins may be coming to an end. Each time these two teams meet, it’s a chance for Wake Forest to show that they belong among the ACC’s best, and for Clemson to prove that they remain the kings of the conference.
Conclusion
The Clemson vs. Wake Forest matchup is more than just another ACC game. It’s a reflection of how the landscape of college football is changing. While Clemson has been the dominant force for years, Wake Forest’s steady rise under Dave Clawson has added new excitement to the series. Whether it’s an explosive offensive shootout or a defensive grind, this game is one that fans of both programs circle on their calendars.
In the years to come, don’t be surprised if Wake Forest pulls off a major upset or two, as the gap between these two programs continues to narrow. For now, however, Clemson remains the favorite—but Wake Forest is right on their heels, making this ACC showdown one to watch every season.
