Jake Dickert’s 2025 blueprint squares heavily on defense and a power run game. Yet, the Demon Deacons must address a suspect passing game if they hope to avoid missing a bowl for a third consecutive year.
College Football Preview 2025: Wake Forest Demon Deacons

Key Takeaways:
- Jake Dickert’s leadership is key to Wake Forest’s 2025 strategy
- The defense and run-oriented offense form the team’s core
- The passing game remains the biggest unknown
- Bowl eligibility hangs in the balance
- Wake Forest risks a third straight year without a postseason appearance
Introduction
Jake Dickert enters the 2025 season determined to revitalize the Wake Forest Demon Deacons. While the team is set to lean on its defense and ground attack, one overarching question looms: Will the passing game be strong enough to see them through?
A Defensive Foundation
Defense stands as the bedrock of Dickert’s approach. Rumblings from preseason camp suggest the staff aims to establish a strong presence at the line of scrimmage. The hope is that dominance on defense will keep games close and give the Demon Deacons a chance to strike when the opportunity arises.
Prioritizing the Run Game
Alongside the defensive focus, Wake Forest plans to rely on a robust ground attack. Dickert appears confident in the potential of his rushing offense, seeing it as a reliable method to control the clock and capitalize on opponents’ mistakes. Although details remain sparse, the belief is that an energized run game can lighten the load on the Demon Deacons’ passing unit.
Concerns Over the Passing Attack
“Unless Wake Forest finds answers in the passing attack,” the news feed cautions, “the Demon Deacons risk missing a bowl game for the third straight season.” This stark warning underscores the team’s most pressing hurdle. If the offense fails to develop consistency through the air, Wake Forest’s postseason dreams may again remain out of reach.
A High-Stakes Season
The urgency is palpable: Wake Forest has gone too long without a bowl appearance. If the aerial offense stalls yet again, fans could be looking at a third consecutive year of postseason disappointment. For the Demon Deacons, turning potential into production is paramount.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season unfolds, Wake Forest’s fate may hinge on whether its offense can find balance and efficiency. If Jake Dickert’s defense and run game can keep them competitive, and the passing attack can show steady improvement, the Demon Deacons stand a chance to change the narrative and reach a bowl berth—a goal that means everything to this program right now.