Previewing No. 19 Clemson at Wake Forest on Thursday

Thursday's TV game

No. 19 Clemson (6-2) at Wake Forest (2-6)

Time/TV: 7:30 p.m. ET/ESPN. Surface: Artificial.

Line: Clemson by 21 ½. Sagarin difference: Clemson by 26.73.

Synopsis: Over the years the Thursday night spotlight has produced its share of instant classics. This is not likely to be one of them. Wake Forest, quite simply, can't score. The Demon Deacons haven't exceeded 24 points in a game this season and are averaging just more than 14, tied for third worst in the FBS. It's been a trial by fire for freshman QB John Wolford, who has been harassed into 13 interceptions with only seven TD passes while working behind a porous line that has surrendered 31 sacks. He's almost certainly going to have another long night against the Tigers' defensive line that is among the best in the country. DEs Vic Beasley and Tavaris Barnes along with LB Stephone Anthony figure to be in the Wake backfield frequently. The Tigers' offense hasn't exactly been lights-out, either, since dynamic QB Deshaun Watson went out with a hand injury. Cole Stoudt will get the starting nod once again, though Tigers coach Dabo Swinney says Watson will be dressed and available if needed. He actually might be; the Deacons' defense has performed well thanks to sound tacklers like LB Brandon Chubb and SS Ryan Janvion.

Line furnished by Glantz-Culver.

Jeff Sagarin's power ratings show the relative strength of teams; 3.17 points were added to the home team's rating to calculate the difference.