North Carolina vs. Wake Forest Picks and Prediction for Saturday, November 15, 2025
Use Code PPWC
North Carolina heads to Winston-Salem looking to stay in the ACC bowl picture, while Wake Forest aims to build on a strong season at home. The Demon Deacons are 6-3 and 3-3 in the conference, while the Tar Heels sit at 4-5 overall and 2-3 in league play. Kickoff is set for 4:30 PM ET at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium, airing on The CW Network. ESPN’s matchup predictor gives Wake Forest a 69% chance to win. Get the edge this weekend with our free college football picks backed by data and trends.
North Carolina Preview
The Tar Heels have fought inconsistency throughout the year, but are getting better after consecutive wins over Stanford and Syracuse. Quarterback Gio Lopez has thrown for 1,021 yards with six touchdowns and five interceptions, showing improved decision-making over the past two games. Running back Demon June brings balance to the offense with 416 yards and two scores on the ground, while receiver Jordan Shipp has emerged as a dependable target with 384 yards and three touchdowns. North Carolina’s offense has found ways to grind out drives, though turnovers remain an issue against top defenses. The team’s front seven, led by Melkart Abou Jaoude with seven sacks, must generate steady pressure to keep Wake’s mobile quarterback contained.
Wake Forest Preview
Wake Forest enters this matchup after a hard-fought 16-9 win at Virginia, recovering well from a blowout loss to Florida State. Quarterback Robby Ashford has passed for 1,298 yards but only three touchdowns, relying heavily on the ground game to carry the offense. Running back Demond Claiborne has been the workhorse, tallying 639 rushing yards and eight touchdowns across nine games. Wide receiver Chris Barnes remains a consistent contributor with 492 yards and three scores, giving Ashford a reliable downfield option. The Demon Deacons’ defense, led by Nick Andersen with 69 tackles, has been the difference in close contests, holding four of the last five opponents under 20 points. If Wake continues to control time of possession and win the turnover battle, they’ll have the edge at home.
Wake Forest vs North Carolina Prediction
Prediction: Wake Forest has the more stable defense and stronger rushing attack, two factors that should define this ACC matchup. North Carolina’s offense has shown signs of life, but inconsistency through the air could cost them against a disciplined unit. Expect a low-scoring game dominated by the run.
Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers
Subscribe Now
Final Score: Wake Forest 23, North Carolina 17
Betting on College Football?
- Bet with other College Football fans at the best sportsbooks
- Sign up today and get started with the latest college football sportsbook promos
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days
New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $200 in Bonuses Instantly!
Best Picks:
- Wake Forest -3.5
- Under 49.5 total point
