Wake Forest football looks to build on nine-win season

Wake Forest enters the upcoming season following a successful nine-win campaign under head coach Jake Dickert, which included a bowl victory against Mississippi State. Despite being projected to finish 13th in the ACC, the team looks to build on a defensive turnaround that saw them rank 26th in total defense and 44th in scoring defense during the previous season.

The defensive line remains a primary strength due to significant returning talent. Redshirt senior Langston Hardy returns after a standout performance recording 67 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and seven sacks. The unit also features returning players Gabe Kirschke, Dallas Afalava, and Zach Lohavichan.

Other key defensive returners include linebacker Aiden Hall, who recorded 73 tackles, and secondary players Davaughn Patterson and Travon West. While the offense will adjust to new personnel under coordinator Rob Ezell, the defense is expected to provide stability as the team faces a challenging ACC schedule, including a matchup against Miami.