Virginia edges Wake Forest 31-30 in thrilling ACC opener

In a thrilling ACC opener, Virginia overcame a 30-17 deficit entering the fourth quarter to secure a 31-30 victory against Wake Forest. The Cavaliers' comeback was sparked by a crucial fumble recovery by Antonio Clary, which halted Wake Forest's momentum late in the game. Virginia's quarterback, Anthony Colandrea, threw for 357 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his poise despite two interceptions. His final touchdown pass to Trell Harris set the stage for Grady Brosterhous's game-winning 1-yard sneak with just over two minutes remaining. Wake Forest, led by quarterback Hank Bachmeier, amassed 403 passing yards and had a strong offensive showing with 544 total yards. However, they struggled to capitalize on key opportunities, including a late fumble by Taylor Morin that proved detrimental. Donavon Greene had a standout performance with 11 receptions for 166 yards, but his failure to recover the fumble highlighted the Demon Deacons' missed chances. Virginia's victory marks their first 2-0 start since 2021 and their first win in an ACC opener since 2020, reflecting a significant improvement under coach Tony Elliott. The Cavaliers demonstrated resilience and determination, rallying in the final minutes to secure the win. This game not only boosts their confidence but also sets a positive tone for the remainder of the season. Looking ahead, Virginia will host Maryland next Saturday, while Wake Forest faces a challenging matchup against sixth-ranked Mississippi. Both teams will aim to build on their performances as they continue their respective seasons in the competitive ACC landscape.