Wake Forest University has unveiled its 2026 football schedule, a calendar that blends traditional rivalry games with a series of themed weekends designed to boost fan participation and community spirit.
The centerpiece of the early season is Homecoming & Reunion Weekend on November 7, when the Deacons host Merrimack in a clash that will also feature the popular Gold Rush theme, encouraging alumni and supporters to return to Winston‑Salem.
A week later, on October 3, the team will welcome Stanford for Family Weekend, offering discounted family packages and activities that make the game accessible to younger fans.
Celebrating Service and Community
The October 31 matchup against Virginia will serve as Salute to Service, allowing spectators to donate tickets to active‑duty personnel and veterans, while the Friday night game versus Miami will be branded as the Wear Black game in conjunction with Unrivaled Weekend.
Throughout the season, group outings and special rate promotions will be available for several contests, and single‑game tickets are now on sale, giving fans the opportunity to secure seats early.
The 2025 campaign set a high bar, with Wake Forest finishing 9‑4 and securing notable victories over SMU and No. 12 Virginia. The defense ranked seventh in the ACC and 44th nationally in scoring defense, a foundation the coaching staff believes can be built upon.
Key returning players include Davaughn Patterson, who earned ACC Defensive Back of the Week honors after a standout performance against SMU, Carlos Hernandez, whose 197‑yard, two‑touchdown effort against Delaware highlighted his receiving prowess, and Langston Hardy, who led the ACC with 17.0 tackles for loss last season.
Coach Dave Clawson, now in his tenth year at the helm, expressed confidence that the blend of experienced talent and fresh enthusiasm will keep the program moving forward. He was joined by staff members Demond Claiborne, Nick Andersen, Connor Calvert and John Currie, all of whom will play integral roles in player development and game planning.
Fans are encouraged to take advantage of the announced promotions, purchase tickets early, and join the community events that make Wake Forest football more than just a game — it's a shared experience for alumni, students, and the broader Triad region.