Wake Forest (5-6) entered the game against Duke (7-4) needing a win to keep their season and bowl streak alive. For the Blue Devils, it was their chance to get eight wins in the regular season for the first time since 2014. Most pregame articles pointed out to a close game with a small advantage to Duke.
The Deacs received the kickoff and started the game putting out a textbook rushing drive. The Blue Devils have been having problems defending the run all season, and the Deacs exploited that with a heavy dose of triple-option, misdirection and end-around runs.