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Game Recap
On Saturday, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons' offense rose to the challenge against an NC State defense that boasted an average of only 16 points allowed. They narrowly escaped with a victory as the team sidled past the NC State Wolfpack 45-42. Having forecasted a close win for Wake Forest, the oddsmakers were right on the money.
The Demon Deacons started the game off right with 24 first-half points. The Wolfpack countered with 20 points. Wake Forest almost let the contest get away from them in the second half, but they had just enough oomph to take it.
RB Justice Ellison and QB Sam Hartman were among the main playmakers for Wake Forest as the former punched in two rushing touchdowns in addition to snatching one receiving TD and the latter passed for three TDs and 290 yards on 47 attempts in addition to rushing for one TD and 43 yards. That's the most rushing touchdowns Ellison has had all year. Wake Forest also relied on K Nick Sciba, whose 45-yard field goal boot in the second quarter wound up being the difference in the matchup.
Wake Forest's defense was a presence as well, as it collected two interceptions and two fumbles. The picks came courtesy of DB Nick Andersen and DB J.J. Roberts.
The Wolfpack's defeat shouldn't obscure the performances of WR Emeka Emezie, who caught ten passes for two TDs and 133 yards, and QB Devin Leary, who passed for four TDs and 408 yards on 59 attempts.
The victory bumped the Demon Deacons' record up to 9-1. NC State's overall record fell to 7-3.
Wake Forest will take on the Clemson Tigers at noon ET next Saturday at Memorial Stadium. Wake Forest will need a sterling offensive performance if they want to penetrate an unbending defense that has allowed an average of only 15.3 points per game. NC State will look to defend their home turf next Saturday against the Syracuse Orange at noon ET. Like the Wolfpack, 'Cuse is looking to wash their mouths of the taste of defeat after falling 41-3 to the Louisville Cardinals.
