The programs of Clemson and Wake Forest have really never been linked. Although they’ve competed against each other 73 times since 1933 going into tonight’s 7:45 ESPN game, it’s hard to equate both schools based on the past and the present.

The Tigers have a much more prestigious program nationally. Clemson’s been to almost as many bowl games (8) in Tommy Bowden’s 9-year reign as Wake Forest has all time (9). The boys from the Palmetto State have won a national title and been had a part of 13 ACC championships since 1953. Their northern brethren have only been on top of the league twice.

The Demon Deacons haven’t fared well on the field against their orange counterparts, either. Clemson holds a 56-16-1 edge, including a 5-2 advantage since Wake coach Jim Grobe took over in 2001.

With all the past numbers and Tiger dominance, however, it’s hard to argue that the programs aren’t moving in different directions entering tonight’s game. And it’s been because of coaching.

The Demon Deacons have risen from a “who cares” to a respected program that competes at a very high level, especially after 2006’s ACC title.

While Wake did endure several futile seasons under Grobe, who went 13-27 from 2001-05, the turnaround is nothing short of miraculous. Wake’s roughly followed the same traditional line as ACC mate Duke and the SEC’s Vanderbilt in schools that just plain lose. But, Grobe has improved the talent level and outlook of the team through hard work and patience, taking a school known more for academics and basketball to an up-and-comer that’s getting used to a top 25 spot.

In fact, 27 current Wake players hail from the talent-rich state of Florida. The Tigers have 19 players from the Sunshine State.

While Grobe has been the toast of Winston-Salem, Bowden once again finds his seat a bit on the warm side. Although both coaches turned down chances to jump ship last season, Bowden’s the one dealing with high expectations and falling short of those hopes.

But tonight is important.

Forget that both teams are coming off upsetting home losses two Saturdays ago — Wake fell to Navy, Clemson to Maryland — and that league play really begins tonight for both.

More importantly, this is a statement game for the two sides.

Wake plays in front of national audiences about as much as the Cubs win the World Series, so a victory tonight would aid recruiting and help build the fan base, all while beating another program with a lot more national prestige.

Clemson hasn’t fared well in winning big games recently, and a loss would fuel the fire that’s burning the back of Bowden’s neck. The last game in front of the whole world, the season opener against Alabama, was just an embarrassment. A win would go a long way in securing his status.

And in this era of college football, coaching status is everything.