3 keys to victory for Florida State's football matchup against Wake Forest

These keys to victory could help Florida State against Wake Forest.
Oct 4, 2025; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons quarterback Robby Ashford (2) looks to run the ball against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the fourth quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bishop-Imagn Images
Oct 4, 2025; Blacksburg, Virginia, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons quarterback Robby Ashford (2) looks to run the ball against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the fourth quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Bishop-Imagn Images | Brian Bishop-Imagn Images
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ELIMINATE THIRD DOWN CONVERSIONS FOR WAKE

Florida State's defense has not done a good job in terms of getting opposing offenses off the field. This was frustrating to watch, since Stanford had three drives of 10 or more plays.

We even saw teams such as Pittsburgh turn a 3rd and 15 into 4th and 2, where it gave the Panthers confidence to go for it. The three-man fronts of Tony White's defense has been worrisome because Florida State doesn't apply pressure to opposing quarterbacks.

Wake Forest only converts third downs 36.5% of the time. This is not good, in terms of college football standards. This offense wants to run the football with Demond Claiborne and stay ahead of the chains (much like Florida State).

Eliminating Wake Forest to not convert third downs means that defensive linemen from Florida State have to get after which ever quarterback that they decide to roll with (or both).

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