Scouting report on Wake Forest: What to know about Clemson’s first opponent
The ACC kicks off its 2020 season this week.
No. 1 Clemson (0-0) at Wake Forest (0-0)
When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday
Where: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
TV: ABC
Three storylines
1. Wake Forest has quietly put together four consecutive seasons of at least seven wins under Dave Clawson. The Demon Deacons won eight games last year and have been one of the most consistent ACC teams in recent years behind Clemson. Wake Forest went 6-1 at home last year, but this will be a different type of home environment due to COVID-19.
2. Speaking of that different environment, there will be no fans allowed at the game. Wake Forest is allowed to pipe in crowd noise, to which Dabo Swinney said: “I really don’t care. I’m just excited to play. They can pipe in Marvin Gaye or whatever they want.” The College GameDay will also be in town for the matchup, but no fans will be allowed at the ESPN pregame show either.
3. There will likely be some players ruled out on game day due to injuries and COVID concerns, but Wake Forest is already down two of its top players from last year entering the 2020 season. Quarterback Jamie Newman and receiver Sage Surratt were the stars of the Demon Deacons offense in 2019. Newman transferred to Georgia in the offseason, before opting out for 2020. Surratt also opted out of this season to prepare for the NFL Draft.
Wake Forest players to watch
1. Quarterback Sam Hartman is replacing Newman and is a player the Tigers are familiar with. The Charlotte native started nine games as a true freshman in 2018, including against Clemson. Hartman has played in 13 games so far in his career. He has completed 56 percent of his passes for 2,814 yards, with 20 touchdowns and 10 interceptions.
2. Defensive end Carlos Basham was named a preseason All-American by several outlets after finishing with 11 sacks and 18 tackles for loss last year.
3. Safety Nasir Greer had 65 tackles, three forced fumbles and an interception in 2019 and was named Honorable Mention All-ACC. He should be the leader of Wake Forest’s secondary.
