WINSTON-SALEM – Wake Forest began the Jake Dickert era with a hard-fought 10-9 victory over Kennesaw State on Friday night at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium, as the Demon Deacons survived a defensive battle in front of 30,789 fans to open the 2025 season.
In a game that featured just 19 total points and minimal offensive fireworks, Wake Forest relied on methodical execution and timely defensive stops to secure its first victory under new head coach Dickert. The win improved Wake Forest's impressive record in season openers, continuing a trend of strong starts that has defined the program in recent years.
Early Exchange Sets Tone
The game's opening sequence established what would become a pattern of sustained drives and defensive resilience. Wake Forest struck first with a masterful 14-play, 75-yard touchdown drive that consumed over seven minutes of the first quarter. The methodical march culminated in a five-yard touchdown run by redshirt senior quarterback Robby Ashford, showcasing the balanced attack that would characterize the Demon Deacons' offensive approach throughout the evening.
Kennesaw State answered immediately with their own impressive touchdown drive. The Owls managed a 10-play, 75-yard scoring march capped by a 19-yard touchdown run from C. Bennett. However, a failed extra point attempt left Kennesaw State trailing 7-6, a missed opportunity that would prove costly in the narrow final margin.
Ashford Commands Wake Forest Offense
Ashford, making his Wake Forest debut, delivered a steady performance that balanced efficiency with timely playmaking. The redshirt senior completed 20 of 28 passes for 218 yards while adding 42 rushing yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. His dual-threat capability kept Kennesaw State's defense honest throughout the game, particularly on the opening touchdown drive where he completed all five pass attempts for 43 yards.
The receiving corps provided reliable support, with redshirt senior tight end Eni Falayi leading the way with four catches for 52 yards. His 18-yard reception marked the most productive tight end performance for Wake Forest in recent memory. Sophomore receiver Micah Mays Jr. contributed three catches for 33 yards, while Chris Barnes added three receptions for 23 yards and also handled kickoff return duties effectively.
Ground Game Provides Balance
Wake Forest's rushing attack, while not spectacular, proved effective in controlling the game's tempo. Five different players contributed to the team's 130 rushing yards, with Ashford leading the way with his 42 yards and touchdown. Running back Taye Clark added 37 yards on 11 carries, while Jamario Clements contributed 26 yards on 11 attempts, including a crucial fourth-down conversion on the opening scoring drive.
Kennesaw State countered with a more productive ground game, accumulating 158 rushing yards led by Bennett's 66 yards and touchdown on 17 carries. Quarterback Dexter Williams II added 44 yards on 14 carries, demonstrating the dual-threat capability that kept Wake Forest's defense challenged throughout the contest.
Defensive Units Shine
Both defenses delivered impressive performances in what became a field position battle for much of the evening. Wake Forest's defense effectively contained Kennesaw State's passing attack, limiting Williams II to just 12 completions on 33 attempts for 149 yards. The pressure was consistent, with the Demon Deacons recording four sacks, including efforts from Gabe Kirschke and Jayden Loving.
Redshirt senior defensive back Nick Andersen paced Wake Forest's defensive effort with nine total tackles and two pass breakups, providing steady coverage and run support. The defensive line contributed three tackles for loss, disrupting Kennesaw State's offensive rhythm at crucial moments.
Kennesaw State's defense proved equally stingy, recording two sacks and seven tackles for loss while forcing several three-and-out sequences. The Owls' ability to generate pressure helped keep the game competitive despite their offensive struggles in the passing game.
Fourth Quarter Drama
The game's decisive moments came in the third quarter when both teams managed their only scoring after halftime. Kennesaw State took a 9-7 lead with 9:45 remaining in the third quarter on a 29-yard field goal by D. Kinney, capping a 14-play, 64-yard drive that showcased their offensive patience and precision.
Wake Forest responded with the game-winning drive, aided by a spectacular 41-yard reception from Karate Brenson that moved the Demon Deacons into scoring position. Connor Calvert converted the ensuing 22-yard field goal attempt with 3:05 remaining in the third quarter, providing what would prove to be the winning margin.
The fourth quarter became a defensive showcase, with both teams struggling to sustain drives. Wake Forest's defense secured the victory with a crucial fourth-down stop, forcing a turnover on downs with under two minutes remaining to preserve the narrow lead.
Looking Ahead
Wake Forest's season-opening victory, while not aesthetically pleasing, demonstrated the type of resilience and execution that championship teams display in challenging circumstances. The Demon Deacons controlled time of possession 35:01 to 24:59 and converted efficiently on third downs, going 6-for-17 compared to Kennesaw State's 9-for-21 mark.
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