Wake Forest Demon Deacons

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons represent Wake Forest University, competing in the Atlantic Coast Conference from Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium in Winston-Salem. The Demon Deacons embody the ultimate underdog spirit, consistently outperforming their size and resources as the smallest Power Five school. Wake Forest has developed an innovative, up-tempo offensive identity under Dave Clawson that maximizes talent. The program competes in the ACC while maintaining academic standards among the highest in FBS football. Deacon fans, though fewer in number than conference peers, are fiercely loyal and have witnessed unexpected runs to ACC championships and major bowl games.

Wake Forest football began in 1888, and the program has spent most of its history as an ACC underdog before breakthrough success under Jim Grobe and Dave Clawson. The 2006 team won the ACC championship and reached the Orange Bowl, one of the most surprising runs in conference history. Brian Piccolo, whose friendship with Gale Sayers was immortalized in 'Brian's Song,' was a Wake Forest legend. The rivalry with NC State, Duke, and other North Carolina schools defines the annual schedule. Wake Forest's combination of academic excellence and competitive football makes it a unique presence in the ACC, proving that smaller programs can achieve at the highest level.