What happened: Wake Forest head coach Jake Dickert stated that his program continues to validate its national standing with each victory as the team improved to 9-1. The comments followed a dominant 42-point shutout performance on the road against SMU.

Why it matters: The 9-1 start strengthens Wake Forest's contention for a College Football Playoff bid following Dickert's long-term contract extension signed earlier in the week. Sustained success positions the Demon Deacons at the forefront of the ACC race heading into late November.

What to watch: Wake Forest awaits the next College Football Playoff committee rankings to see if the blowout victory elevates the program into the projected 12-team field.