Three things to watch
1. FSU’s defensive front vs. Wake’s offensive line:
Transfer Jermaine Johnson has been outstanding on the edge for the Seminoles, accounting for half of the team’s eight sacks. FSU’s defensive line is much improved with the addition of Johnson and fellow transfer Keir Thomas (one sack), Quashon Fuller (one sack) and Dennis Briggs (one-half sack). But this week they’ll face one of the most experienced offensive lines in the ACC. The group returns five starters who have allowed two sacks and seven tackles for a loss.
2. FSU’s running game vs. Wake’s defensive front:
FSU has the secondbest ground game in the conference, averaging 231 yards per contest. Jashaun Corbin is the only player in the conference with backto-back 100-yard rushing performances. The Seminoles have rushed for at least 200 yards in three straight games for the first time since 2012. Wake Forest hasn’t allowed a 100-yard rusher in three straight games dating to last season and the Demon Deacons haven’t allowed a rushing touchdown.
3. FSU’s explosive plays vs. Wake’s defense:
The Seminoles have accounted for seven offensive plays of 20-plus yards, including an 89-yard touchdown run by Corbin and a 60-yard touchdown catch by Ja’Khi Douglas. Wake Forest’s defense hasn’t allowed a play of 40 or more yards. The Deacons have allowed two runs of 30-plus yards and not a single passing play longer than 30 yards.