Confirming that we're in a different college football universe these days, in what former gridiron galaxy could a traditional also-ran like Wake Forest ever qualify for a bowl game seven years running? More bowls these days, to be sure, but the Demon Deacons have become relevant not because of the expanded postseason, but rather due to shrewd hires in the coaching market and commitment to building a sustainable model in Winston-Salem. After Jim Grobe proved it could be done at Wake, Dave Clawson has picked up the baton; best of all for Deacon backers, Clawson seems perfectly content, deflecting interest from several potential suitors in recent years.

And why not? The Deacs have provided the resources to keep the program humming, with facility upgrades worthy of an NFL franchise, a conference (ACC) that makes it realistic to stay close to the big boys of the loop, not to mention generous compensation for Clawson and his assistants. Importantly, too, the support base that isn't going to demand national titles every year. They're still content to simply be competitive at Wake with an occasional big year. So, why shouldn't Clawson feel comfy?  

Bruce Marshall's full breakdown of Wake Forest's 2023 outlook, which includes how he's playing their win total, can be found below as part of SportsLine's preview of the ACC season.

ACC preview: Conference winner | Boston College | Clemson | Duke | Florida State | Georgia Tech | Louisville | Miami | NC State | North Carolina | Pittsburgh | Syracuse | Virginia | Virginia Tech | Wake Forest

2023 Wake Forest at a glance

• Last Year: 8-5 SU, 8-5 ATS, 5-8 O/U
  
• Returning Starters: Offense 5; Defense 5
• Win Total: 6.5 (Over +110, Under -130)
  

What do you need to know about Wake Forest before locking in your ACC futures bets? And which side of their win total makes for the best play? ... Join SportsLine right now to see ACC futures betting strategy from a veteran college football expert!