Gio Lopez reunites with offensive coordinator Rob Ezell, under whom he produced over 3,000 yards and 25 touchdowns in 2024. If Lopez recaptures that form, Wake Forest's offense could be explosive, but his erratic play at North Carolina last season remains a concern. The supporting cast features a rebuilt receiving corps with speed and potential, though the offensive line is still being finalized.

Wake Forest's defense returns both starting ends (Gabe Kirschke and Langston Hardy) who combined for 12 sacks and 26 tackles for loss, plus experienced tackles and linebackers. The secondary has a budding star at nickel (Davaughn Patterson) and safety Rushaun Tongue back from injury. This unit was the strength of last year's team and should be able to control the game against an Akron offense that is unproven.

Wake Forest opens at home with a venue HFA of 2.3, and the forecast calls for clear skies at 57°F with light wind. These conditions favor the Deacons' passing attack and should allow their defense to operate without weather-related disruptions. Akron will have to travel and adjust to the environment.

Kicker Connor Calvert was excellent last season (18-of-22 field goals, including a walk-off winner), providing reliable scoring. Punting was a weakness, but Australian Ethan Hyams takes over. Wake Forest was dynamic in the return game and has multiple options, which could provide short fields against an Akron team that may struggle to contain explosive plays.

Akron enters with a 0-0 record and no power rating, making them a largely unknown opponent. Wake Forest has depth and experience across the roster, particularly on defense, and should be able to grind out a win if the offense is inconsistent. The Deacons' ability to rely on their defense and special teams gives them a clear edge in a season opener where both teams are still finding their identity.

Cal's offense, built around star QB Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele and a deep receiving corps (Chase Hendricks, Ian Strong, Dorian Thomas), faces a UCLA defense that is also in transition. The Bears' offensive line, with returning interior starters and transfer additions, must protect Sagapolutele against UCLA's pass rush. If the line holds, Cal's passing attack could exploit UCLA's secondary.

Cal's defense lost key players at linebacker and in the secondary, but added length at cornerback (Ricky Fletcher, Daniel Harris) and edge rushers (Solomon Williams, Emmanuel Okoye). UCLA's offense, with a new quarterback and skill players, will test Cal's ability to generate pressure and cover. The Bears' front seven must contain the run and force UCLA into passing downs.

Cal hosts UCLA at home with a 2.5-point HFA, but the forecast calls for light rain and 51°F. The Bears' passing attack may be slightly hindered, but their tight ends (Dorian Thomas, Mason Mini) could become key targets in short-to-intermediate routes. UCLA's offense, if less accustomed to wet conditions, may struggle more.

Cal returns reliable kicker Chase Meyer (10/13 FG, 7/7 inside 40) and added punter Angus Davies. With rain likely, field position and kicking accuracy become critical. UCLA's return game and coverage units will be tested. Cal must avoid turnovers and win the hidden yardage battle.

Head coach Tosh Lupoi and his staff debut against a familiar opponent (UCLA). The Bears' preparation and execution in all three phases will be scrutinized. Early-game adjustments and discipline (penalties, turnovers) could determine the outcome, especially in a close contest.