Wake Forest football: 3 bold predictions vs. Elon in Week 1

Sep 1, 2022; Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA; Wake Forest Demon Deacons quarterback Mitch Griffis (12) scrambles out of the pocket to pass against the Virginia Military Institute Keydets during the first half at Truist Field. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

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Wake Forest football will begin its 2023 season against Elon (not Musk) on Thursday night and it will be the first game of what should be a great holiday weekend on the gridiron.

The Demon Deacons are coming off an 8-5 season and have tempered expectations due to the departure of long-time starting quarterback Sam Hartman who passed for over 12,000 yards at Wake Forest. He’s now with Notre Dame and Mitch Griffis is the guy.

Will Wake Forest start the season on a high note? Let’s get bold.

3. Jahmal Banks eclipses 150 receiving yards

One year ago, Jamal Banks caught his first career touchdown pass from Mitch Griffis who started in place of Sam Hartman who had a health scare and missed the opener. Now, he’s going to catch passes regularly from the redshirt sophomore.

Banks may not be a household name yet, but he’s arguably the most talented receiver on the team, especially with Donavon Greene out for the season with a knee injury. He’s going to see his targets increase and he’ll be a favorite for Griffis.

Especially on Thursday night.

The two are going to be on the same page early and often to the tune of seven catches for 150 yards for Banks. He’ll also finish with two touchdown receptions to give him 11 for his career.

This could be the start of a special aerial connection.

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