100 Days to Kickoff: Opponent Previews – Wake Forest

Charlotte, North Carolina - January 2, 2026 - Wake Forest Demon Deacons, once considered a surprise team, have made significant changes to their roster. The former Wazzu head coach Jake Dickert is back at the helm, having taken over after Dave Clawson's departure. The Deacs have had a successful season, finishing 3rd in the conference with nine wins and a tie.

The team's offensive star, former UNC and South Alabama quarterback Gio Lopez, returns to Wake Forest after a disappointing season with the Heels. He will be reunited with his offensive coordinator from South Alabama, Rob Ezell. Lopez completed 65% of his passes last season but only threw for 10 touchdowns and 5 interceptions.

Running back Ty Clark III, who led the team in rushing the past two seasons, is back with the Deacs. He is expected to start the season. Freshman KD Daniels will join Clark III, as will Carlos Hernandez, who is returning after leading the team in receiving last season. The incoming freshmen are expected to step up in the absence of the next five leading receivers from last season.

On defense, Wake Forest returns four starters. Defensive ends Gabe Kirshke and Langston Hardy both had impressive seasons last year, with Kirshke recording 5 sacks and 4 TFLs, and Hardy with 7 sacks and 10 TFLs. Zach Lohavichan and Dallas Afalava are also returning, with Lohavichan recording 4.5 TFLs and Afalava with 3 sacks and 2 TFLs. Freshman Aiden Hall and junior Frank Cusano will be competing for the other linebacker spot.

The secondary is also strong, with safeties Davaughn Patterson and Braylon Johnson returning. Patterson finished second in tackles last season, while West has played 13 games at the position in the past season. Kicker Conner Calvert returned after making 18 out of 22 kick attempts last season, and Aussie Ethan Hyams is expected to start at punter.

The upcoming season promises to be a challenging one for Wake Forest. They begin their conference slate against preseason favorite Miami, and their first game back in Atlanta since 2017 will take place on January 16, 2002. Coach Dickert will look to lead the Deacs to a second consecutive conference title.