By Don Stone, KennesawStateSports.com, FootballAtlanta.com
Kennesaw State and Wake Forest are set to clash in their season opener on August 29 in Winston-Salem. Both programs are guided by new head coaches—Jerry Mack for KSU and Jake Dickert for Wake Forest—promising a matchup defined by fresh energy, uncertainty, and a hunger to prove themselves under new leadership.
Kennesaw State’s Approach
Coach Jerry Mack steps into his first FBS campaign after a tough inaugural season for the Owls. He emphasized the team’s defensive potential: “One thing that has really stood out is just the play of our defense so far…their communication has continued to improve. The athleticism that we’ve shown on the defensive side of the ball has really impressed me.” Mack added, “Right now our motto is kind of hit everything that moves and they kind of exemplified that with the way they play.”
He noted pride and motivation among his players: “These guys have a pride about themselves. They do have a chip on their shoulder. They want to have a winning season. The guys that were here before, they don’t want the same thing to happen this year that happened last year”.
Wake Forest’s Focus
Jake Dickert, fresh off his move from Washington State, has transformed Wake Forest’s atmosphere. At his pregame press conference, Dickert highlighted team cohesion: “From the very beginning, our team has built camaraderie and trust. We don’t have the luxury of waiting a few years to get established.” Dickert was adamant about fundamentals: “For a new team like this, that has nothing to use as a reference, the fundamentals are a huge focus.”
He pointed out that both teams face similar rebuilds, saying “Both teams, while trying to figure each other out, are very likely to be doing the same with themselves.” Dickert put forward the importance of strong leadership: “Eight players received over 20 votes in the captain-voting process, which speaks to the tight-knit leadership throughout the locker room”.
What to Expect on Friday
As a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference, Wake Forest is favored at home, but the transfer-filled depth chart means chemistry could take time to develop. The Owls come in as an underdog, but Mack’s defensive focus and the team’s desire to shake off last season’s struggles add intrigue. The game will reveal how quickly these new coaches can shape winning cultures and fortify their programs. As Dickert summarized, “The moral of the story is that this team is in about as good a spot as it could be. However, that doesn’t give many indicators as to how the team will actually perform”.
Both teams carry renewed energy and determination into Friday night’s matchup, making for a compelling and unpredictable opener.
Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m. with the game televised on the ACC Network.