Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs Boston College Eagles Picks and Predictions December 7th 2024

Boston College, Wake Forest Seek Consistency on Offense

Boston College and Wake Forest will square off in their Atlantic Coast Conference opener on Saturday afternoon in Winston-Salem, N.C., both looking to address glaring offensive struggles.

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Boston College Struggles with Efficiency

Boston College (6-3) is coming off a rough performance, falling 73-51 to South Carolina on Tuesday. The Eagles shot just 33.3 percent from the field, including a dismal 2-for-16 from 3-point range.

“They pushed us out and used their length to force us into tough shots,” Boston College coach Earl Grant said. “Then defensively, we broke down. We weren’t as connected as we needed to be, and we hang our hat on our defense.”

Donald Hand Jr., who leads the Eagles with 13.7 points per game, will be crucial if Boston College hopes to bounce back offensively.

Wake Forest Looks to Rebound

Wake Forest (7-3) had similar issues in its 57-44 loss at No. 22 Texas A&M, managing just 28.3 percent shooting from the field. The Demon Deacons are averaging only 25.8 percent from beyond the arc this season.

“We also just missed too many shots at the rim when we got there,” Wake Forest coach Steve Forbes said. “That’s from physicality and athleticism.”

Hunter Sallis led Wake Forest with 19 points against Texas A&M, while Efton Reid III added a season-high 11 rebounds. Sallis is the team’s leading scorer this season, averaging 17.0 points per game.

Key Absences

Boston College has struggled to replace last season’s offensive contributors Quinten Post, Devin McGlockton, and Claudell Harris Jr., who combined for 50 points in the Eagles’ 84-78 loss to Wake Forest last year.

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Meanwhile, Wake Forest freshman guard Juke Harris did not play against Texas A&M after averaging 16.4 minutes in the first nine games.

Head-to-Head

Last season, Wake Forest prevailed in the only meeting between these teams, with Sallis and Cameron Hildreth combining for 39 points.

What’s at Stake

Both teams are looking to find offensive rhythm and consistency as they begin ACC play. For Boston College, defensive cohesion will be key, while Wake Forest will aim to improve its shooting efficiency, particularly from 3-point range.

With both squads eager to put recent struggles behind them, this matchup will provide a pivotal early test in their ACC campaigns.