Matchup Analysis: Florida State at Wake Forest

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It's still up in the air just how good the Seminole passing game will be without Deondre Francois under center. True freshman James Blackman had a solid debut last Saturday versus N.C. State. The Belle Glade (Fla.) Central standout passed for 278 yards, one touchdown and didn't throw an interception. There should be plenty of talent around the rookie quarterback for his first road start, but FSU could be without the services of leading receiver, Auden Tate, who sustained a shoulder injury last week. If he's out, Nyqwan Murray, Keith Gavin, George Campbell and tight end Ryan Izzo will have to carry the load and become dependable targets for Blackman.

At first glance, it looks as though Wake Forest has a pretty formidable pass defense. While the Demon Deacons rank 11th nationally in that category, they haven't played a team with a viable passing attack through the first four games. Also, Wake Forest is breaking in two new starters from last year's secondary. Nevertheless, Jessie Bates III, who led the team with five interceptions last season, is one of the top safeties in the conference and will need to be accounted for.

MATCHUP: There are a lot of unknowns, making this an extremely difficult matchup to evaluate. Blackman is making his second career start and the status of his primary receiver is in doubt. Also, with games versus Presbyterian, Boston College, Utah State and Appalachian State, Wake Forest hasn't faced anyone with even an average passing attack. At the end of the day, FSU's superior athletes should give it a slight edge.

WINNER: Slight for FLORIDA STATE