The Demon Deacons defeated the Zips, 38-16, in the 2026 season opener. Making his debut for Wake Forest, quarterback Gio Lopez showed off the explosiveness of the passing attack with two touchdown passes of over 70 yards. Lopez finished the game 21-32 with 350 yards and three touchdowns. Wide receiver Carlos Hernandez only played the first half but still had five receptions for 165 yards and a touchdown. Running back Ty Clark III ran the ball seven times for 105 yards, for his first 100-yard performance. Antonio Meeks had a 72-yard touchdown and finished the game with three receptions for 93 yards.
