What happened: Wake Forest secured a 42-point road victory over SMU on Saturday after taking control early in Dallas. The Demon Deacons built an insurmountable 42-0 halftime advantage, extending an early 28-0 lead in the second quarter. Head coach Jake Dickert's squad maintained full control through the final whistle to close out the win.
Why it matters: The blowout win bolsters No. 13 Wake Forest's resume as the program contends for an ACC title game appearance and College Football Playoff positioning. The performance also validates the athletic department's commitment to Dickert, who agreed to a long-term contract extension earlier in the week following an 8-1 start.
By the numbers: Wake Forest totaled five first-half rushing touchdowns, with Gio Lopez scoring twice in the 42-point rout.
What to watch: Wake Forest heads into the final stretch of the regular season aiming to protect its standing in the CFP rankings.