Week 1 of the college football season features a matchup between the Akron Zips and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons, with betting lines suggesting a low-scoring affair. Analysts are leaning toward the under 48.5 points for the game, citing significant personnel changes for both squads.
Akron is predicted to have a challenging season, with an over/under win total of 4.5 games. The team will be led by new quarterback Reese Poffenbarger, a transfer from Miami and North Texas, who has not previously been a starter. Running back Jordan Gant returns after a season with 4.8 yards per carry and six touchdowns. The Zips' defense will feature four transfer starters, which may impact early-season cohesion.
Wake Forest is also expected to be a marginal improvement over Akron, with an over/under of six wins. Their schedule includes challenging non-conference games against Purdue and Miami. Like Akron, Wake Forest is introducing a new starting quarterback, Gio Lopez, who previously played at North Carolina. Lopez threw for 1,747 yards and 10 touchdowns last season but also recorded five interceptions. The Demon Deacons' offense has undergone changes with the addition of offensive linemen and wide receivers from the transfer portal.
Given the new quarterbacks and extensive roster turnover for both teams, a slow start is anticipated. The focus on adapting new offenses in live-game situations leads to the prediction that the total score will remain under 48.5 points.