Wake Forest Demon Deacons Remain in Top 25 Polls

The Demon Deacons continue to receive votes in major college sports rankings despite recent setbacks.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 9:34pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a college basketball game, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in a vibrant color palette, capturing the dynamic energy and multiple perspectives of the sport.The Demon Deacons' consistent performance and passionate fan support keep them in the national spotlight, despite facing tough competition.Wake Forest Today

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons, a Division I college sports program based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, have maintained their presence in major national polls and rankings across several sports, including football, basketball, and baseball, despite facing some recent challenges and setbacks. The team's consistent performance and strong fan support have kept them in the conversation among the top programs in the country.

Why it matters

Wake Forest's ability to remain ranked or receive votes in major polls is a testament to the strength of their athletics program and the dedication of their coaching staff and student-athletes. It also highlights the passionate fan base that supports the Demon Deacons, even during periods of adversity or tough competition. Maintaining a presence in national rankings is crucial for the program's visibility, recruiting efforts, and overall success.

The details

The Demon Deacons have faced some tough competition and setbacks in recent weeks, including a sweep by Florida State in baseball and a pivotal matchup against Baylor in men's tennis. However, the team has managed to stay in the conversation, with their football, basketball, and other sports programs continuing to receive votes in major national polls. The team's consistent performance and the support of their loyal fan base have been key factors in their ability to maintain their status as one of the top college sports programs in the country.

  • The Demon Deacons were swept by Florida State in a recent baseball series.
  • The Demon Deacons faced a pivotal matchup against Baylor in the ITA Indoor National Championships.
  • The Demon Deacons earned the No. 1 seed in the Waco bracket of the upcoming ITA Indoor National Championships.

The players

Barry Lewis

The managing editor and publisher of Wake Forest Demon Deacons On SI sites, overseeing a team of writers and photographers covering all sports at Wake Forest.

Jake Dickert

The head coach of the Wake Forest football team.

Jeff Lebby

The head coach of the Mississippi State football team, who will face off against Wake Forest in the Duke's Mayo Bowl.

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What they’re saying

“At the Duke's Mayo Bowl Media Day, Dickert and five Wake Forest players were asked to describe the season in one word. All had positive takes on the Deacs' season.”

— Jake Dickert, Head Coach, Wake Forest Football

“The regular season is behind us. For the last 11 weeks, we have ranked the 17 teams in the ACC. Find out where every team finished in our final Power Rankings.”

— Barry Lewis, Managing Editor/Publisher, Wake Forest Demon Deacons On SI sites

What’s next

The Demon Deacons will face off against Mississippi State in the Duke's Mayo Bowl, where the winning coach will be doused in Duke's Mayo.

The takeaway

Despite facing some setbacks, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons have maintained their presence in national rankings across multiple sports, showcasing the strength and resilience of their athletics program. The team's loyal fan base and the dedication of their coaching staff and student-athletes have been instrumental in their continued success and recognition.