Deacons Dominate on Military Appreciation Day, Knock Off UNC
On a crisp Saturday afternoon at 4:30 PM, Wake Forest lit up their home stadium for a poignant Military Appreciation Day, hosting the University of North Carolina Tar Heels in a much-anticipated ACC showdown. Adding to the intrigue: Bill Belichick, legendary NFL coach turned college sideline figure, was in attendance as UNC’s head coach — though his typically steely demeanor gave way to frustration after a tough outing.
Wake Forest Pre- Game Intro | Dez Barnes
A Salute to Service, and a Statement by the Deacons
Wake Forest didn’t just celebrate its military tribute — they made a statement on the field. Their stadium was sold out, a fitting backdrop to honor service members while watching the Demon Deacons execute a dominant performance.
Big Plays, Big Impact
The tone was set almost immediately. Wake’s Carlos Hernandez scooped up a fumble early in the game and rumbled 50 yards for a touchdown, turning a wild scramble into an instant momentum boost.
Later, in a sequence that felt almost theatrical, quarterback Robby Ashford connected on a 70-yard flea-flicker pass to Hernandez, who broke free for his second touchdown of the game.
Meanwhile, running back Demond Claiborne helped tie it all together with a tough 12-yard rushing score, complementary to a ground game that racked up 223 yards.
Defense and Special Teams Shine Bright
Wake’s defense throttled UNC’s offense, holding the Tar Heels to just 56 rushing yards — a stark contrast to their season average. Two UNC field goals were blocked, further showcasing the Deacons’ special-teams firepower.
Linebacker Aiden Hall stood out defensively, posting nine tackles and helping the Deacons control the trenches.
UNC’s Offense Frustrated, Belichick’s Restraint Falters
The Tar Heels couldn’t get into the end zone, settling instead for four field goals from Rece Verhoff, including a 57-yarder that set a program record — but two of his attempts were blocked by Wake’s special teams.
UNC quarterback Gio Lopez tried to spark something, throwing for 201 yards, but UNC kept sputtering in the red zone. Belichick, visibly frustrated after the final whistle, offered a blunt “Congratulations” to Wake’s coach in a cold handshake. He admitted afterward that his team “just wasn’t very good,” citing both offensive and defensive breakdowns.
Turning Point & Takeaways
Turnovers hurt UNC early: Hernandez’s fumble recovery for a touchdown flipped the game before most fans even settled in.
Momentum through trickery: The flea-flicker connection between Ashford and Hernandez was a thing of beauty — and a blow to UNC’s morale.
No breathing room: Wake’s defense didn’t just make stops; they made statements.
Special Teams, big splash: Blocked kicks underscored the importance of all three phases of the game.
Why This Loss Stings for UNC
Belichick’s first season in Chapel Hill has been anything but smooth. This 28–12 setback drops the Tar Heels to 4–6, and now they need to win out — including one more must-win — just to reach bowl eligibility. Their offensive identity remains fragile, and Wake exposed that with force.
Wrapping It Up
Wake Forest celebrated their military heroes and sent a message on the field. Big plays, defensive grit, and special-teams dominance sealed the 28–12 win. As for UNC… this loss isn’t just another mark in the loss column. It’s a glaring reminder that in Belichick’s first collegiate season, offensive struggles and inconsistencies remain their biggest obstacles.
