The 2025 season has been yet another disaster for Florida State with a 3-4 record. This weekend they host the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, a team that they are very familiar with.
FSU has dominated the overall series with a 31-9-1 record. However, Wake Forest won three straight before the Seminoles beat them 41-16 back in 2023 as they went undefeated in the regular season.
Florida State is a 10.5-point favorite coming into this matchup. With how they have played this year, it has made it hard to have any confidence in them despite who the opponent is. Anything can happen it football, but that can be either a good or a bad thing. Here’s five reasons why FSU could struggle against Wake Forest.
Lack of confidence
Florida State is currently on a four-game losing streak. Much like winning, losing is a habit, and it’s hard to remain confident when you keep getting beat week after week no matter how well you prepare.
Wake Forest has a good defense
Florida State is averaging nearly 40 points and has one of the top offenses in the country at 523 yards per game. Wake Forest counters that with the No. 2 scoring defense in the ACC (18.9) and the No. 3 unit in total defense. This won’t be an easy matchup for the Seminoles offensively.
Florida State’s defense is suspect
Tony White’s 3-3-5 scheme has been a disaster, to say the least. Even seven games in, they still have too many communication break downs and missed assignments. Wake Forest has a very capable running back in Demond Claiborne, and that could not only control the clock but also open up the passing game.
FSU’s play-calling on offense has been shaky at times
For as good as FSU’s offense has been, coordinator Gus Malzahn has had some very questionable moments calling plays, especially in their first loss to the Virginia Cavaliers that stalled drives thay had potential. It could lead to short fields and scoring opportunities for an Wake Forest offense that isn’t that explosive.
Wake Forest is simply a better team
While they are far from a juggernaut, and may not have the better overall talent, Wake Forest plays more like a complete unit that Florida State. They have won close games and they have beaten opponents soundly. FSU will have to play well on both sides of the ball to win this one.
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This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: Five reasons FSU could struggle vs. Wake Forest
Reporting by Matthew Lenix , FSU Wire / FSU Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
