Virginia vs Wake Forest: Cavaliers Travel to Face No. 14 Demon Deacons

Virginia vs Wake Forest Preview and Matchup Details

Virginia heads to North Carolina for a conference test against No. 14 Wake Forest this Saturday afternoon. The Cavaliers enter the contest holding a 4-4 record overall and a 2-3 mark in ACC play, aiming to bounce back from a two-game skid. Meanwhile, the Demon Deacons sit tied for second place in conference standings riding a four-game win streak, holding their highest AP Top 25 position since 2022.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:45 p.m. at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium. Television and radio coverage will be provided via ESPN2 and the Virginia Sports Radio Network.

Key Statistical Matchups and Players

The upcoming contest showcases a stout Virginia defensive unit against a high-powered wake forest football offense. The Cavaliers boast the top pass defense efficiency rating in the ACC at 111.17 and have kept opponents to no more than two offensive touchdowns in 10 of their last 13 games.

On the opposing sideline, the Demon Deacons offense features quarterback Gio Lopez—who faced UVA last season while playing for North Carolina—alongside top receiver Carlos Hernandez. Lopez ranks high nationally in total offense, while Hernandez produces strong numbers in receiving yards per game.

Historical Context and Series History

Saturday marks the 54th installment of the historic series between these programs, which dates back to 1889. Historically, the Cavaliers have claimed 35 victories across the previous 53 meetings. This includes a narrow 31-30 victory in Winston-Salem during the 2024 season.

Facing a top-15 opponent on the road presents a difficult challenge for Virginia. The program carries a 4-30 record against ranked opponents away from home since 2000, with head coach Tony Elliott securing two of those rare road victories during his tenure.

Sources: Virginia Sports, Yahoo Sports, 247Sports.