Wake Forest Bulldozed SMU. Are You Not Entertained, College Football Playoff Committee?
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- Wake Forest dominated ACC rival SMU with a 49–7 victory, outgaining them 535 to 275 and holding SMU scoreless until late in the third quarter, marking SMU's worst loss under coach Rhett Lashlee.
- The Demon Deacons' defense and multi-faceted rushing attack overwhelmed SMU from the start, limiting them to just 11 plays in Wake Forest territory in the first half and scoring touchdowns on six of seven possessions.
- Despite their strong performance and only one loss to an undefeated Miami, Wake Forest remains underappreciated by the College Football Playoff committee, ranking 16th initially and only moving to 13th after a dominant win against Merrimack.
- Wake Forest's strength of schedule ranks 59th nationally, but their strength of record is 10th, surpassing several playoff teams, highlighting the committee's undervaluation of the Demon Deacons' accomplishments.
- Coach Jake Dickert emphasizes Wake Forest's unique and relentless style of play, suggesting the team’s consistent dominance should earn them greater recognition and respect in the playoff rankings.
