Get ready for some yards to pile up tonight when the Miami Hurricanes travel to Wake Forest.
No. 5 Miami has been doing that more than anybody during their 2-0 start to the 2026 season. Their 702 yards per game lead the nation by a long shot, boosted by their ACC record 856 yards they put up in a 77-7 rout of Florida A&M last week. But lest you think Darian Mensah and company got their numbers that high just by beating up on an FCS school, they nearly hit 550 in a 45-6 pounding of Stanford on the road, as well.
The Hurricanes' opponent has a strong offense, too. Wake Forest has mounted the 30th-most yards in college football over its 2-0 start, though it's a relatively modest 485 per game. Left-handed quarterback Gio Lopez won ACC Quarterback
of the Week honors after throwing for 225 yards and a touchdown while also leading the Demon Deacons with 58 rushing yards and two more scores in a 38-36 double-overtime win at Purdue.
Watch Miami vs Wake Forest live on Fubo (free trial)
This game also features the ACC's top two receivers out of the gate in UM's Malachi Toney (330 yards, 4 TDs) and Wake's Carlos Hernandez (253, 1). And while the Hurricanes defense hasn't allowed a touchdown yet this year, they will be without three defensive backs tonight, including both starting cornerbacks in O.J. Frederique and Xavier Lucas.
Miami vs Wake Forest odds, money line, over/under
Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Thursday, Sept. 17.
- Moneyline: Miami (-1600) | Wake Forest (+1000)
- Spread: Miami by 20½
- Over/under: 56½
Not interested in this game? Our guide tocollege football betting odds, picks and spreads has you covered.
If you’re new to sports betting, don’t worry. We havetips for beginners on how to place a bet online. And USA TODAY Network readers can claimexclusive promos and bonus codes with theseonline sportsbooks and sports betting sites.
Miami vs Wake Forest predictions, picks for college football Week 3
Pete Fiutak, College Football News
Miami 38, Wake Forest 17: "Akron has a good passing game, and Purdue can throw the ball, but Mensah will take things up a few notches. He won’t hit 90% of his passes in this, but he won’t have to. The Miami running game will be the star in this, at least early on."
David Anicetti, Picks & Parlays
Miami 45, Wake Forest 17: "Wake Forest has moved the ball well behind Lopez, but allowing 36 points to Purdue is concerning when facing a Miami offense that has already scored 122 points. Wake Forest can contribute enough offensively to push the game over the current total, while Miami controls the matchup with its passing attack and stronger defense."
Adam Burke, VSiN
Bet the over: "This is easily the best quarterback that Miami has faced thus far. It’s also far and away the best QB Wake Forest has faced, as they drew an Akron team who didn’t know who was starting at QB until right before the game and then a Purdue team led by Ryan Browne, a decent P4 QB, but not one on Mensah’s level."
How to watch Miami Hurricanes vs Wake Forest
- Date: Friday, Sept. 18
- Start time: 7:30 p.m. ET
- TV channel: ESPN
- Live streaming: Fubo (free trial) | ESPN Unlimited
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Miami vs Wake Forest predictions, picks, odds: Who wins Week 3 college football game?
Our editors independently choose our recommendations. Some content is produced with paid support from a third party, however our editorial decisions remain independent. If you buy through our links, the USA TODAY Network may earn a commission. Prices and availability may change.
Advertiser disclosure: USA TODAY may earn a commission when you sign up through links on this page. Commissions never influence our editorial coverage or rankings. Offers and odds were accurate at publication and are subject to change; terms apply — see the operator’s site. This is general information, not betting, legal or financial advice. To the fullest extent permitted by law, USA TODAY is not liable for losses arising from your use of it.
Must be 21+ (18+ where permitted). Sports betting and casino gaming are not legal everywhere; complying with the laws where you are located is your responsibility. Gamble only with funds you can afford to lose. Gambling problem? Help is available 24/7 — call or text 1-800-GAMBLER, or call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-MY-RESET. State helplines and responsible gaming resources.
