Vanderbilt vs. Wake Forest Short Report | Sep 9, 2023
Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium
Winston-Salem, NC
Sep 9, 2023
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Game Recap
Wake Forest emerged victorious over Vanderbilt with a final score of 36-20, showcasing a potent offensive performance characterized by a dominant rushing attack. Wake Forest running back, Demond Claiborne, spearheaded the ground game with 165 yards on 26 carries. The Demon Deacons outgained Vanderbilt on the ground, 228-74, demonstrating a clear control of the line of scrimmage.
Vanderbilt, despite their struggles on crucial fourth downs, saw a resilient performance from quarterback AJ Swann, who threw three touchdown passes and amassed 314 passing yards. However, Vanderbilt's efforts were hampered by critical turnovers, including a fumble return for a touchdown by Wake Forest's Brendon Harris. The balanced offensive execution of Wake Forest, coupled with timely defensive plays, ultimately secured their win in this ACC-SEC showdown.
Key Plays:
Matthew Dennis (Wake Forest)
Matthew Dennis kicked a 25-yard field goal, setting the tone for Wake Forest's early dominance and giving them an early lead of 3-0. This was part of Dennis's flawless kicking performance on the day.
Malik Mustapha (Wake Forest)
Malik Mustapha intercepted a pass and spectacularly returned it 50 yards, setting up a favorable field position and an early scoring opportunity, a defining defensive moment early in the game.
Jahmal Banks (Wake Forest)
Jahmal Banks caught a 7-yard touchdown pass, adding to Wake Forest's lead and showcasing Mitch Griffis's effective passing game. This play significantly extended the Demon Deacons' lead to 17-7.
Will Sheppard (Vanderbilt)
Will Sheppard grabbed an 11-yard touchdown pass, narrowing Vanderbilt's deficit to 17-14 and providing a crucial score to keep them in contention.
Tate Carney (Wake Forest)
Tate Carney rushed 1 yard for a touchdown, boosting Wake Forest's advantage to 24-14 and capping off a methodical drive that exemplified their offensive efficiency in short-yardage situations.
Will Sheppard (Vanderbilt)
Will Sheppard caught a 10-yard touchdown pass, keeping Vanderbilt's hopes alive by narrowing the deficit to 24-20. His reliable hands were crucial for the Commodores throughout the game.
Brendon Harris (Wake Forest)
Brendon Harris recovered a crucial fumble and returned it 31 yards for a touchdown, creating a significant 31-20 lead for Wake Forest right before halftime, showcasing their defensive alertness.
Ke'Shawn Williams (Wake Forest)
Ke'Shawn Williams caught a 24-yard touchdown pass, widening Wake Forest's lead to a decisive 36-20 and putting a cap on a dominant performance by the Deacons' offense.
London Humphreys (Vanderbilt)
London Humphreys caught a terrific 30-yard touchdown pass, providing a late spark for Vanderbilt, although it wasn't enough to reverse their fortunes in the fourth quarter.
Matthew Dennis (Wake Forest)
Matthew Dennis kicked a 20-yard field goal to finalize the score at 36-20, capping off his perfect kicking day and ensuring a smooth finish to the game for Wake Forest.
Standout Players:
Mitch Griffis (Wake Forest, QB)
Leading Wake Forest's balanced attack, quarterback Mitch Griffis firmly guided the offense, completing 17 of 26 passes for 196 yards and two touchdown passes. His poise under center helped maintain a steady offensive rhythm throughout the game.
Demond Claiborne (Wake Forest, RB)
Demond Claiborne spearheaded Wake Forest's rushing dominance with 165 yards on 26 carries. Claiborne's powerful and elusive running style consistently stretched Vanderbilt's defense, providing a foundational element for the Demon Deacons' offense.
Will Sheppard (Vanderbilt, WR)
Wide receiver Will Sheppard showcased his reliability as a primary target for Vanderbilt, recording eight receptions for 87 yards and two touchdowns. His contributions helped keep the Commodores in the game, particularly with two pivotal scores.
AJ Swann (Vanderbilt, QB)
Despite the loss, AJ Swann demonstrated resilience with 314 passing yards and three touchdowns. Swann's precision passing and ability to find open targets were central to Vanderbilt's offensive efforts, although his two interceptions proved costly.
Matthew Dennis (Wake Forest, K)
Kicker Matthew Dennis contributed 12 crucial points, remaining perfect with three successful field goals and three extra points. His reliable performance in special teams ensured that Wake Forest capitalized on scoring opportunities.
Jasheen Davis (Wake Forest, DL)
Defensive lineman Jasheen Davis was a constant disruptive force against Vanderbilt, tallying three solo tackles, four assisted tackles, and one sack. Davis's pressure on Vanderbilt's quarterback played a key role in limiting their offensive success.
References:
Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons - Final Score - September 09, 2023 | FOX Sports
Dores Fall to Demon Deacons
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Wake Forest University
Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons - Recap - September 9, 2023 - Sports Illustrated
Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons Live Score and Stats - September 9, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Vanderbilt Commodores vs. Wake Forest Demon Deacons Box Score and Stats - September 09, 2023 | FOX Sports
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Vanderbilt Commodores
0
14
0
6
20
Wake Forest Demon Deacons
3
21
3
9
36
