The 2025 college football season kicks off with an intriguing non-conference showdown as the Wake Forest Demon Deacons take on the Kennesaw State Owls in Week 1 on Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET. The game will be played at Truist Field in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, with a full house expected as Wake Forest looks to start the season strong, while Kennesaw State aims to make a statement in its second year transitioning into the FBS.
This is more than just a season opener. For Wake Forest, it’s about proving they can be ACC contenders with a fresh roster. For Kennesaw State, it’s an opportunity to shock the system, bring national attention to the program, and test their mettle against a Power Five team.
The clash — 🏈 Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State — is a story of tradition versus new ambition, of ACC pedigree against Conference USA’s latest addition. Let’s dive into every detail you need to know: kickoff info, how to watch, betting odds, team previews, and expert predictions.
📅 Game Day Info – 🏈 Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State
- Matchup: Kennesaw State Owls at Wake Forest Demon Deacons
- Date: Friday, August 29, 2025
- Time: 7:00 PM ET
- Venue: Truist Field, Winston-Salem, NC
- TV Broadcast: ACC Network (expected)
- Streaming: ESPN App, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV
This Friday night slot will draw attention across the southeast, as both fanbases gear up for what could be a statement game to launch the 2025 campaign.
🏟️ Venue Focus: Truist Field
Truist Field, the home of the Demon Deacons, offers one of the most underrated college football atmospheres in the ACC. With a seating capacity around 31,500, it provides an intimate yet loud environment — a true home-field advantage. Friday night football in Winston-Salem carries its own electricity, and the 🏈 Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State matchup will bring out a passionate crowd for the season opener.
🔍 Team Previews – 🏈 Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State
🟡 Wake Forest Demon Deacons: Rebuilding for ACC Glory
Wake Forest comes into 2025 looking to rebound from a tough 2024 season where inconsistency plagued them. Head coach Dave Clawson, now in his 11th season, has maintained the program’s respectability but is under pressure to re-establish Wake as an ACC contender. The offensive system, long known for its delayed mesh and RPO-heavy approach, will evolve this season with a new quarterback and younger talent across the board.
🔑 Wake Forest Players to Watch:
- QB Hank Gibbs – A redshirt junior expected to take over full-time duties under center, known for his poise and accuracy.
- RB Tate Carney – A physical back who can wear down defenses between the tackles.
- WR Wesley Grimes – A breakout candidate with size and speed, ready to step into a WR1 role.
- DE Jasheen Davis – A force on the edge and Wake’s most experienced pass rusher.
- CB Caelen Carson – A lockdown corner with NFL potential, key to stopping big plays.
Wake Forest will rely on solid execution, especially in the red zone and on third down, to keep control against a motivated Owls team.
⚫ Kennesaw State Owls: Hungry to Prove Themselves at the FBS Level
After years of dominance at the FCS level, Kennesaw State has fully made the jump to FBS football as a member of Conference USA. Head coach Brian Bohannon has guided the program through a rapid rise, and now he looks to compete with bigger schools on a national scale. The Owls have transitioned from the triple-option to a more modern offensive approach, and they bring speed and aggression to both sides of the ball.
🔑 Kennesaw State Players to Watch:
- QB Jonathan Murphy – Dual-threat senior who’s capable of making plays through the air and on the ground.
- RB Isaac Foster – Elusive back with big-play ability and strong receiving skills.
- WR Nykeem Farrow – Reliable target with route-running polish.
- LB Evan Thompson – The defensive leader and tackling machine.
- S Tyler Moore – Smart, physical safety who can blitz or drop into coverage.
Kennesaw State must take advantage of their underdog role, play mistake-free football, and take shots downfield to generate momentum.
🔍 Key Matchups – 🏈 Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State
Wake Forest’s O-Line vs KSU’s Front Seven
If Wake Forest can create clean pockets and open lanes for Carney, they’ll control tempo. Kennesaw’s undersized but quick defensive front must create chaos early.
Murphy’s Legs vs Wake’s Discipline
Murphy’s dual-threat ability puts pressure on Wake Forest’s linebackers and edge defenders. A couple of scrambles or broken plays could swing field position.
Special Teams
Kennesaw State may need to rely on special teams to stay close. A blocked punt, fake, or return touchdown could dramatically shift momentum.
📈 Betting Odds & Expert Predictions – 🏈 Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State
- Spread: Wake Forest -21.5
- Over/Under: 52.5
- Moneyline: Wake Forest -1500, Kennesaw State +950
Expert Picks:
- Against the Spread: Kennesaw State +21.5 (Backdoor cover potential)
- Over/Under: Under 52.5
- Winner: Wake Forest
Expect Wake Forest to control most of the game, but Kennesaw’s grit and late-game fight could keep the margin under three touchdowns.
⭐ Players to Watch
Hank Gibbs – QB, Wake Forest
His ability to execute the RPO scheme will define the offensive rhythm. If Gibbs plays turnover-free, Wake wins easily.
Isaac Foster – RB, Kennesaw State
Whether in the backfield or as a receiver, Foster’s speed and agility could test Wake’s linebackers in open space.
Jasheen Davis – DE, Wake Forest
A disruptive presence off the edge, Davis will aim to pressure Murphy into mistakes.
Tyler Moore – S, Kennesaw State
His versatility as a tackler and in coverage will be crucial against Wake’s balanced attack.
🧠 Coaching Matchup: Dave Clawson vs Brian Bohannon
Dave Clawson is one of the most consistent and respected coaches in the ACC. His experience and in-game adjustments are major assets for Wake Forest.
Brian Bohannon, on the other hand, is building a program with raw energy and boldness. He’s used to motivating underdogs, and his team always plays with heart.
This coaching battle is about polish vs passion, and both teams will reflect their leader’s personality on the field.
📊 2024 Season Recap
Wake Forest Demon Deacons:
- Record: 6–6
- ACC Finish: 7th
- Offense: 25.8 PPG
- Defense: 29.3 PPG Allowed
- Bowl Game: Fenway Bowl (Loss vs Cincinnati)
Kennesaw State Owls:
- Record: 4–8 (FBS Transition Year)
- Conference USA Finish: N/A (First full year in 2025)
- Offense: 22.1 PPG
- Defense: 33.0 PPG Allowed
Wake Forest aims to bounce back from a mediocre season, while Kennesaw seeks to carve out a name in their inaugural FBS campaign.
🧩 X-Factors
- Turnovers: If Kennesaw wins the turnover battle, it could stay within striking distance.
- Red Zone Conversions: Wake needs TDs, not field goals, to pull away early.
- Pace of Play: KSU may attempt to slow the game down to limit Wake’s offensive snaps.
🏆 Final Score Prediction – 🏈 Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State
Wake Forest 35, Kennesaw State 17
Wake’s depth and experience will eventually wear down Kennesaw State. While the Owls may hang around in the first half, expect Wake Forest to pull away with long, clock-consuming drives in the second. Hank Gibbs puts up solid numbers in his debut, and the Demon Deacons’ defense gets stronger as the game progresses.
- Game MVP: Hank Gibbs – 245 yards, 3 TDs
- Defensive Star: Jasheen Davis – 2 sacks, 4 pressures
- Surprise Performer: WR Wesley Grimes – 6 catches, 85 yards, 1 TD
❓ FAQs – 🏈 Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State
When is the game?
Friday, August 29, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET.
Where is it being played?
Truist Field, Wake Forest’s home stadium in Winston-Salem, NC.
What channel is the game on?
ACC Network (TBD) or streaming via ESPN app.
Can I stream it live?
Yes. FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu Live, and Sling TV should all carry the game.
Is Kennesaw State in FBS now?
Yes, 2025 marks their first full season as an FBS program in Conference USA.
What’s the betting line?
Wake Forest is favored by 21.5 points.
🏁 Final Thoughts
🏈 Wake Forest vs Kennesaw State is more than just a Week 1 clash — it’s a game filled with contrasting narratives. One team wants to reclaim relevance in a Power Five conference, while the other is hungry to make noise in its FBS debut season.
Expect Wake Forest to take care of business, but don’t overlook the Owls’ competitive fire. Even if the upset doesn’t happen, this game will be a vital measuring stick for both programs’ growth in 2025.