The Panthers disappointing season continued with a 21-17 loss on the road against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. On the heels of a big win just a week prior over then-14th ranked Louisville, the team was unable to pull out a victory in a must-win game and moved to 2-5 on the season. 

In Winston-Salem on Saturday, the Panthers had their best offense performance of the season, with 414 yards of total offense and no turnovers. Quarterback Christian Veilleux had 302 yards and two touchdowns on the day. But with a 17-14 lead late in the fourth quarter, the defense gave up a game winning touchdown with just six seconds remaining, ending the Panthers hopes for back-to-back wins. 

The loss puts into doubt whether the Panthers can reach six wins to gain bowl eligibility, as their remaining schedule sees them face Notre Dame and Duke on the road, as well as Florida State at home. All three teams are ranked in the top 25, and will be tough opponents to beat. With just five games remaining, the Panthers will have to win four of five to reach bowl eligibility, meaning they’ll have to beat at least two of three of these ranked teams, in addition to winning tough home games against two 4-3 teams – Syracuse and Boston College.