The Wake Forest Demon Deacons are set to face off against the NC State Wolfpack in Raleigh, North Carolina, with the game scheduled to tip off at 12 p.m. ET on ESPN2. NC State is currently favored by 9.5 points, with a moneyline of -530, while the total is set at 159.5 points.
For this matchup, the under seems like an attractive pick. The recommendation is to bet on the under 159.5 points, with an adjustment for a bet down to 158.
Analyzing the teams, Wake Forest comes into this game with a record of 9-4, having secured two notable wins against Memphis and West Virginia. However, their season has been marked by missed opportunities, including narrow losses to Michigan and Texas Tech, highlighting the need for significant victories to strengthen their reputation in the ACC.
The Demon Deacons are known for their defensive capabilities, currently ranking 52nd in defensive efficiency. They apply consistent ball pressure, contributing to a notable 20% turnover rate defensively, which can lead to quick transition opportunities. A strategic emphasis on forcing opponents to rely on three-point shots has resulted in opposing teams attempting nearly half their shots from beyond the arc, with Wake Forest limiting opponents to an impressive 30% shooting rate from three-point territory.
However, Wake Forest’s interior defense presents challenges, as they rank poorly in defending against two-point field goals, allowing 54.3% success in this area. The team has also shown vulnerability in high-scoring games, conceding over 80 points in every loss so far this season. Offensively, the Demon Deacons have struggled to find their rhythm in the half-court game, ranking 84th in offensive efficiency while heavily relying on three-point attempts.
On the other hand, NC State has embraced a fast-paced playing style under coach Will Wade, who has quickly influenced the team’s tempo. They rank 75th in terms of speed and excel at shooting from distance, with over 46% of their shots coming from beyond the arc at a 36% success rate. The team’s improved ball movement is reflected in their 87th ranking in assist rate, a statistic that has been a hallmark of Wade’s coaching philosophy.
Despite initial defensive struggles this season, NC State has made significant improvements, jumping to ninth in defensive efficiency in recent games. Their five starters contribute evenly to the scoring, with Darrion Williams leading with an average of 14 points per game.
While betting on the under is suggested given the defensive prowess of both teams, the matchup promises to be an intriguing contest. Wake Forest’s defensive strength, combined with NC State’s efficient offensive execution, could lead to a competitive game that could sway in either direction. The emphasis on trapping the Demon Deacons into taking unwarranted shots could play a critical role in influencing the game’s outcome. As both teams strive for a critical victory, the stakes are high, making for an entertaining college basketball showdown.