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The 2025 college football season kicks off with Wake Forest hosting Kennesaw State in Winston-Salem. Both teams are looking to reset after disappointing campaigns last year, and this matchup offers the chance to set the tone early.
WATCH: Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State Anywhere
Game Day: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Stadium: Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium
TV: ACC Network
Stream: ArenacasT
Kennesaw State enters its second year at the FBS level after a rocky debut season in which it finished 2–10. Still, the Owls managed a notable upset over Liberty in 2024, showing they can rise to the occasion.
This year, the team will be led by transfer quarterback Dexter Williams II, who showcased dual-threat ability at Georgia Southern by throwing for 248 yards and three touchdowns while adding rushing production. Depth comes from Amari Odom (Wofford) and Tommy Ulatowski (Kent State).
The ground game will be paced by Coleman Bennett, supported by Chase Belcher (West Georgia) and Alexander Diggs. In the passing attack, Tykeem Wallace, Gabriel Banyard, and Christian Moss headline the receiving corps. Special teams will see a fresh face in kicker Britton Williams.
Wake Forest Demon Deacons: Aiming for Revival
Wake Forest is also looking to bounce back after going 4–8 last year. The program made a bold move in the offseason, hiring Jake Dickert from Washington State to reinvigorate a team that has underperformed in recent seasons.
At quarterback, the Deacons turn to Robby Ashford, a seasoned transfer who has already spent time at South Carolina, Auburn, and Oregon. Known for his mobility, Ashford accounted for 551 yards of offense and four total touchdowns in limited action last year. Deshawn Purdie (Charlotte) provides depth after throwing for 1,802 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024.
The rushing attack remains strong, featuring Demond Claiborne (1,000 yards, 11 TDs) and Tate Carney (8 TDs). In the passing game, Claiborne doubles as a reliable option, joined by Micah Mays Jr. The Deacons also dipped into the portal for reinforcements, adding Carlos Hernandez (Washington State), Karate Brenson (Tennessee Tech), Sterling Berkhalter (Cincinnati), and Sawyer Racanelli (Montana).
On special teams, kicker Matthew Dennis returns after a steady season converting all 36 extra points and 16 of 20 field goals.
For Kennesaw State: Building credibility in Conference USA and proving last year’s struggles were just growing pains.
For Wake Forest: A chance to establish momentum under Dickert and avoid sliding further down the ACC standings after being picked 16th in the preseason poll.
Both teams bring new faces and renewed hope. Whether it’s Ashford igniting the Deacons’ offense or Williams sparking the Owls’ FBS climb, this opening matchup should reveal plenty about the direction of each program.