It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Downtown Wake Forest Historic District in Wake Forest, NC gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Wake Forest, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
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“Always Best Care has been such a relief for our family. They were there when my mother-in-law came home from the hospital and have been incredibly flexible as her needs have changed. Brandi and Sabrina truly listen and care about finding what works best for Mom—and for us. They’ve worked hard to find the right caregiver who can keep her safe, help her maintain her independence, and take some of the stress of managing her care off our shoulders (even when Mom isn’t always the easiest customer!). I also love that they can help us navigate what comes next, from caregiving now to eventually finding the right placement when she needs a higher level of care. This stage of life is not easy, and having people you trust to help navigate it makes such a difference. We’re so grateful to have them in our corner.”
“I receive in home care with Sabrina & Erin at Always Best Care in Leland NC. Without their caregivers to assist me in my daily activities I would be lost! He fact that Hannah and Brittany are so supportive is a bonus, I adore them both for different reasons. Thank you to Always Best Care for making my time here at home so easy, and memorable!”
“I’ve trusted Always Best Care with almost daily care for my mom, for over a year. They are very professional and my mom developed a close relationship with (Super-Special) Brittany. Thank you ABC!”
“Kathryn Q. was invaluable in guiding us through the process of exploring senior living options for my sister. She thoughtfully recommended communities that aligned with her needs, coordinated all the appointments, and personally drove us to each visit. Whenever questions arose, she promptly followed up with staff and ensured we had the information needed to make informed decisions. Her patience, attentiveness, and genuine care made what could have been an overwhelming process feel smooth and manageable. Thanks to Kathryn, we were able to move forward with confidence in this important next stage of life.”
“ABC has been such a reliable, compassionate and helpful company!! Could not talk more highly of the team & environment cultivated :)”
“I have been searching for a care company for my Mother, upon speaking with Sabrina I felt like I was talking to someone who had the best interest for mom’s wellbeing and safety. She educated me on all the amazing service Always best care provides and her compassion truly made me feel like I was talking with a friend . We have been using this amazing company which now has elevated my stress as the son in another state. The care team even calls her mom!!! She looks forward to seeing them everyday. Thank you Sabrina and Shawn for putting my mind at ease. Highly recommend Always best care for anyone searching for the. Best care for their loved ones.”
“I have been pleased with the level of consistent care provided. Sabrina is wonderful and is very attentive, responsive and great at communicating. Always Best Care provides excellent service and does so with care and compassion.”
“Excellent care. Sabrina is a wonderful caregiver and runs things very well.”
“Always Best Care has been such a great experience. I recently started in August, and from the very beginning, Sabrina and Shawn have been incredibly supportive, welcoming, and helpful. They’ve taken the time to make sure I feel comfortable in my role, answer any questions I have, and provide guidance whenever needed. It’s clear they truly care not only about their clients, but also about their staff. The positive environment and strong communication have made a big difference, and I already feel like part of a team that values compassion and professionalism. I’m really looking forward to continuing to grow here and being part of such a dedicated organization.”
“I have used Always Best Care several times when I was away and my mother needed care. They were very responsive in the initial setup and visit. Sabrina is outstanding. She is patient and caring with my mother, who has dementia. Mother doesn't do well with strangers but was comfortable with Sabrina and her backup. They assisted with catheter care, dressing and meals. I have no reservations recommending ABC to a family needing help with a loved one.”
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“Where do I start! With the new found stress of dealing with life's ups and downs, ABC has come thru for me and my family in ways I could never put a price on. Their compassion and understanding made my Mom feel safe and secure, even during difficult times. For that, they have earned a client for life. The way they have loved on her since leaving the hospital make me smile.”
“Amazing company!!!! They definitely put the needs of the clients first. If you are looking for a company you can trust your loved one with, then I would definitely recommend this company!!!”
“Ever since my grandfather got out of the hospital, ABC services has been a life saver for me and my family. The staff they have is always so warm & inviting they always make my grandpa feel so comfortable. What makes ABC different is that they really care about their customers, and you can truly feel that when you’re dealing with their caregivers. I feel so much better knowing that my grandfather is in the hands of people who truly care about his wellbeing. When times got really hard for my family ABC stepped in and provided assistance & reassurance to us. If you’re looking for a company who will treat your loved one as their own I 100% recommend Always Best Care.”
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“Always going the extra mile making sure my father is being well taken care of.”
“Always best care is a family oriented agency . I am blessed in my heart to see the services being rendered to clients. Extra miles taken to make sure every client is well taken care, even in unpleasant weather conditions. The CEO and administrators were out in the snow last week picking up workers who were unsure of driving . I was glad to see this commitment, making sure families could sit back and relax. With no fear, I will recommend Always best to any family who needs awesome care for their love ones.”
“I am very grateful to work for Always Best Care since year 2019. All office staff are great people, very helpful and always treat everyone with love and respect. Definitively it is a bless to work for this agency.”
“Wonderful company!”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting E. Carroll Joyner Park in Wake Forest, NC with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local The Heritage Grille & Wine Barrel or visit Wake Forest Historical Museum, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Wake Forest, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Wake Forest, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Wake Forest, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Wake Forest got one of those wins Saturday that will get notated through the remaining weeks of the season as an important win. Coaches will tell you they are all important. Everyone else will acknowledge that there are some games that stand out on the schedule more than others. North Carolina State had beaten Wake Forest three of the last four years. So, Saturday's 38-14 beatdown of the Wolfpack feels a little more significant. Here's what Wake Forest had to say after the game.What Wake Forest Said After the NC State WinWake...
Wake Forest got one of those wins Saturday that will get notated through the remaining weeks of the season as an important win. Coaches will tell you they are all important. Everyone else will acknowledge that there are some games that stand out on the schedule more than others. North Carolina State had beaten Wake Forest three of the last four years. So, Saturday's 38-14 beatdown of the Wolfpack feels a little more significant. Here's what Wake Forest had to say after the game.
Wake was down 14-10 at the half. That's not usually a crisis moment. But Dickert said after the game that he did not like the way the offense was operating. "They were beating us at the line of scrimmage. I thought our offensive line responded. I thought our front game came to life," he said after the game.
During the week, Dickert talked about how NC State quarterback CJ Bailey had a big game against Wake last year. He said they went into last year's game thinking of him as a good runner and did not give enough credit to his passing game. Saturday, Bailey threw 16 straight completions before he had his first incompletion of the game. He went into the half 16 of 17 for 173 yards and a touchdown.
He talked about the halftime adjustments on NC State's offense. "We came into halftime saying, 'I think we can stop the run with five guys.' So let's be more aggressive. Let's rush the passer. Let's disrupt him. We made him one-dimensional in the first half. But that one dimension was beating us." Dickert said that by being more aggressive on Bailey, it disrupted the flow of the Wolfpack offense. NC State managed only 60 yards of total offense in the second half, and half of that was in "garbage time" when the outcome had long been decided, and the fans had left the stadium.
Dickert said he was pleased with the mental makeup he saw from his team in having a killer instinct in the second half. "It's a tough environment," he said of playing at Carter-Finley Stadium. "Our guys had the right type of intensity just to go out here and finish the game. Even when the fourth quarter started, nobody was satisfied."
Wake is now 5-1 overall for the first time since 2022. Dickert talked about the makeup of this team relative to the record. "That there's still a lot more out there for us," he said. "Our connection is really strong. I felt that coming into the season." Dickert said the leadership from the veteran players has created a culture that makes the team player-led.
The starting quarterback talked about the big game receiver Jack Foley had (eight catches for 156 yards and a touchdown) and what it means to add that option alongside Carlos Hernandez in the offense. "I've got huge confidence in both of those guys," Lopez said. They play really hard; they practice hard and do well in practice. You see it five days a week; you're going to see it the sixth day when it's game day."
Lopez talked about the difference between the first half and the second half of the game and being able to pull away the way Wake did. At halftime, he said, "It was like, hey, this is on us. We've got to pick it up in the second half. We had to win a four-quarter game against Purdue, against Louisville."
The defensive back had a big game Saturday. He picked up the CJ Bailey fumble on NC State's first drive and ran it back to the Wolfpack two-yard line, setting up Wake's first touchdown of the game. He also had a pass deflection to go with five total tackles on the day.
"Coach [Scottie] Hazelton does a great job of sequencing plays," Johnson said of the halftime adjustments. "So we might come out in the first half and show something and then come out in the second half and show something totally different." Johnson said he was not worried about the team's performance in the first half. "I knew that we were probably going to come out in something totally different in the second half. We were just trying to change his eyes," he said of changing up the looks that NC State quarterback CJ Bailey was getting.
Johnson said the sequencing that the defensive coaching staff does goes to building success upon success. "It's a momentum game, right? Not as much as basketball. But that's energy, free energy for the team."
Johnson addressed the Deacs being 5-1. "I lowkey think we should be 6-0," he said, thinking back on that first half of the Miami game.
It was a day of firsts for Lusardi. He had his first catch as a Demon Deacon, which also was his first touchdown. And that resulted in his first postgame press conference.
In the first quarter, after Vinny Firenze stripped Bailey of the ball and Johnson picked it up and ran it to the NC State two-yard line, it was Lusardi's moment in the spotlight.
Lopez rolled out to his left and saw a wide-open Lusardi who had leaked out from the left side of the line. I just kind of popped open. And I was just like, throw the ball…come on…come on…" he joked after the game.
"Coming out after halftime, we were just hungry to get a win," he said of the adjustments in the locker room. "The coaches made great adjustments, and we appreciate the coaches. It just fired us up."
Wake goes on the road to the other side of the country next weekend to face Cal in a game that will start at 10:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
Main Image: Jaylynn Nash-Imagn Images
Raleigh, N.C. — The Wolfpack went through a tale of two halves, taking a 14-7 lead before Wake Forest scored 31 unanswered points on five straight possessions, and the visitors came away with a 38-14 victory over NC State Saturday afternoon at Carter-Finley. It was the Wolfpack's first home loss of the season.The Pack defense held the Deacons' explosive offense to just 10 points on 122 yards before giving up 265 yards and 28 points in the final two quarters.Wake Forest did most of its work through the air...
Raleigh, N.C. — The Wolfpack went through a tale of two halves, taking a 14-7 lead before Wake Forest scored 31 unanswered points on five straight possessions, and the visitors came away with a 38-14 victory over NC State Saturday afternoon at Carter-Finley. It was the Wolfpack's first home loss of the season.
The Pack defense held the Deacons' explosive offense to just 10 points on 122 yards before giving up 265 yards and 28 points in the final two quarters.
Wake Forest did most of its work through the air, with 303 of its 387 total yards coming through the air. The ACC's leading receiver, Carlos Hernandez, and Jack Foley each scored a touchdown on a combined 20 catches for 273 yards—both exceeding the most a pair of players has had in yards and receptions against NC State this year.
The last time two Wake Forest receivers each had more than 100 yards in the same game was in 2021 against UNC.
Quarterback CJ Bailey finished 28-39 for 241 yards with a touchdown and a fumble. He completed his first 16 passes for 173 yards before the offense lost momentum in the second half.
Bailey now sits at 7,025 career passing yards, passing Devin Leary for the sixth most in NC State history.
Keenan Jackson led the Pack in receiving with 61 yards on five catches. Miami transfer Chance Robinson was right behind him, finishing with 53 yards on three catches, including his first career touchdown.
Short-yardage specialist Will Wilson threw his second passing touchdown of the season on what looked like a quarterback keeper from the two-yard line. A jump pass to Hunter Provience then gave the Wolfpack their final score.
With three starters on the offensive line and lead running back Duke Scott out with injury, the Pack struggled in the ground game, averaging just 0.6 yards per carry on 24 attempts.
Popo Aguirre, coming off ACC linebacker of the week honors, continued his dominant run in the middle of the field, finishing as the game's tackle leader with 12 tackles and a tackle for loss. True freshman Ziggy Moore wasn't far behind, finishing with nine tackles despite entering the game with just two on the season.
Fellow freshman Elijah Satchell recorded the Pack's lone sack of the afternoon, his third of the year.
The Pack got the kickoff to start the contest, but the offense lost the ball on the third play when a fumble set the visitors up at the Wolfpack's two-yard line. Wake Forest found their tight end in the end zone a couple of plays later, scoring the game's first points.
Bailey and the offense bounced back, marching 75 yards downfield before Robinson fought through a defensive holding call to score the touchdown. The 24-yard grab was his longest of his career.
A Demon Deacons punt forced the Wolfpack to start their next possession from their own four-yard line. The Pack answered the call, marching downfield in 13 plays to take a 14-7 lead. The score came on a spectacular one-handed grab in the end zone by Provience from two yards out, slipping through the line of scrimmage and getting behind the defense on what looked to be a signature Wilson quarterback run.
The NC State defense made a goal-line stand, denying entry to the end zone on three plays from within their own ten, forcing the Deacons to kick a chip-shot field goal as time expired to end the half.
The field goal brought the halftime score to 14-10 in favor of the Pack. It marked the fifth time this season the Wolfpack has held a lead going into the break, and they are now 3-2 when doing so.
Wake Forest carried its offensive momentum into the second half as rain began to fall, taking its first lead since the first two minutes with a six-yard touchdown pass, giving it a three-point advantage.
The Demon Deacons quickly extended the lead, forcing the Pack's first three-and-out of the day before going 64 yards in four plays for another passing touchdown—63 of which came from Foley.
NC State's second-half start continued when it failed to convert on fourth-and-five at the Wake Forest 32-yard line. The Deacons took advantage, scoring a touchdown on their third straight possession with a quarterback run on fourth-and-goal from the one-yard line.
Another Wolfpack punt set up the defense, allowing a fifth straight scoring drive, the last four of which were touchdowns. This time, a 17-yard touchdown run made the final score 38-14.
The NC State loss moves the ACC's longest continuous rivalry to 70-44-6 in favor of the Pack. The Wolfpack will next face Stanford on the road Friday, October 23rd, at 10:30 p.m., with ESPN broadcasting the game.
RALEIGH, N.C. – Powered by a dominant second half performance, the Wake Forest football team (5-1, 3-1 ACC) routed Big Four rival NC State (3-3, 1-2 ACC) by a final score of 38-14 on Saturday afternoon at Carter-Finley Stadium.After entering the halftime locker room trailing 14-10, the Demon Deacons outscored the Wolfpack 28-0 in the second half. Overall, the Deacs totaled 265 yards of offense while allowing the Wolfpack to only 63 yards over the final 30 minutes.Quarterback Gio Lopez continued his stella...
RALEIGH, N.C. – Powered by a dominant second half performance, the Wake Forest football team (5-1, 3-1 ACC) routed Big Four rival NC State (3-3, 1-2 ACC) by a final score of 38-14 on Saturday afternoon at Carter-Finley Stadium.
After entering the halftime locker room trailing 14-10, the Demon Deacons outscored the Wolfpack 28-0 in the second half. Overall, the Deacs totaled 265 yards of offense while allowing the Wolfpack to only 63 yards over the final 30 minutes.
Quarterback Gio Lopez continued his stellar start to the season as he finished the game going 26-of-33 for 303 yards and three touchdown passes, as well as a touchdown on the ground. Lopez was dominant down the stretch, completing his final 13 passes for 184 yards.
Wide receivers Carlos Hernandez and Jack Foley both shined for the Deacs as they both eclipsed 100-yards receiving on Saturday. Foley led the Deacs with eight receptions for a career-high 156 yards and a touchdown, while Hernandez added a career-high 12 catches for 117 yards and a touchdown.
This marks the first time a pair of Wake Forest wide receivers logged 100 yards receiving in the same game since Nov. 6, 2021, when A.T. Perry and Jaquarii Roberson did so against North Carolina.
Elsewhere, running back Deuce Lawrence logged 46 yards and a rushing touchdown, while tight end Matthew Lusardi notched his first career reception and his first career touchdown to open the scoring.
Defensively, the Demon Deacons were led by defensive lineman Langston Hardy, who tallied eight tackles with four solo efforts, two tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks against NC State. Linebacker Vincent Firenze also recorded another solid performance on Saturday as he finished the game with eight tackles with four solo tackles, as well as a forced fumble on the first possession of the game.
HOW IT HAPPENED
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Quarterbacks With 15+ Total Touchdowns, One Or Fewer Turnovers
| Player | School | Total TDs | Interceptions | Fumbles Lost |
| Gio Lopez | Wake Forest | 20 | 1 | 0 |
| Josh Hoover | Indiana | 18 | 0 | 0 |
| Darian Mensah | Miami | 17 | 0 | 0 |
| Connor Weigman | Houston | 17 | 1 | 0 |
| Lincoln Keinholz | Louisville | 15 | 1 | 0 |
| Julian Sayin | Ohio State | 15 | 1 | 0 |
STAGGERING STATISTIC
| Date | Opponent | Location | Score |
| Oct. 10, 2026 | NC State | Raleigh, N.C. | 38-14 |
| Sept. 26, 2026 | No. 16 Louisville | Louisville, Ky. | 30-27 |
| Sept. 12, 2026 | Purdue | West Lafayette, Ind. | 38-36 (2OT) |
FROM COACH DICKERT "I'm really proud of our whole football program. The celebration in that locker room is pretty special. Going on the road in the ACC and to play that dominant in the second half is incredible. We challenged them at halftime. I thought we lacked a little intensity coming out the gate. NC State was beating us on the line of scrimmage. I thought our offensive line responded to that. Our run game came to life. I think Gio Lopez is that guy. He only had one incompletion in the second half. He's a hell of a leader. Our defense continues to find ways to be dominant, especially in the second half. Credit to our players, our coaching staff and our entire program. In year two, to have that type of performance against a 14-year program is important to us. It's important in our recruiting in taking this thing to the next step."
UP NEXT Wake Forest will return to road action next Saturday, facing Cal in the first-ever matchup between the two schools at California Memorial Stadium. The game will kick-off at 10:30 p.m. PST/7:30 p.m. EST and be televised nationally on either ESPN or ESPN2.
At last, Wake Forest is a nationally ranked college football team.The Demon Deacons, who have been flirting with a Top 25 ranking the past few weeks, finally knocked down the door after Saturday’s impressive 38-14 win at NC State.Wake Forest (5-1, 3-1 ACC) enters the latest Associated Press rankings, released on Sunday afternoon, at No. 21, while the Deacs appear at No. 23 in the most recent coaches poll.This is the first time Wake Forest has been ranked by a major poll since late October 2022. The Deacs are one of...
At last, Wake Forest is a nationally ranked college football team.
The Demon Deacons, who have been flirting with a Top 25 ranking the past few weeks, finally knocked down the door after Saturday’s impressive 38-14 win at NC State.
Wake Forest (5-1, 3-1 ACC) enters the latest Associated Press rankings, released on Sunday afternoon, at No. 21, while the Deacs appear at No. 23 in the most recent coaches poll.
This is the first time Wake Forest has been ranked by a major poll since late October 2022. The Deacs are one of three ACC teams ranked by the AP this week, joining Miami (3rd) and SMU (24th).
Wake Forest has built one of the more impressive resumes among FBS teams in the first half of the season. The win over NC State was the Deac’s third road victory against a Power 4 opponent. Only one other FBS team has done that thus far. The team’s only loss came to Miami, and the Deacons made the Hurricanes uncomfortable in the second half of that one.
Wake outscored NC State 28-0 in the second half Saturday to overcome a 14-10 intermission deficit. Coach Jake Dickert’s team outgained the Wolfpack 265-63 over the final two periods.
Quarterback Gio Lopez continued his hot start to the season, completing 26-of-33 passes for 303 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed for a score. He was on target on each of his last 13 throws.
Rank. Wake. — Eric Mac Lain (@EricMacLain) October 10, 2026
Carlos Hernandez and Jack Foley served as Lopez’s most reliable receivers. Hernandez made 12 catches for 117 yards and a score. Foley had a career day, making eight receptions for 156 yards and a touchdown.
Langston Hardy and Vincent Firenze each had eight tackles to lead the defense.
More notes on the Deacons after their latest win, courtesy of Wake Forest sports information and ACC stats:
The Demon Deacons have proven they belong in the Top 25 conversation. Now they have to show they have staying power. Wake Forest’s first test since being ranked could be a tricky one – a Saturday night trip to Cal this weekend. The ACC “After Dark” game kicks off at 10:30 p.m. ET.
Gio Lopez threw for three touchdowns and ran for another in Wake Forest’s 38-14 win over N.C. State on Saturday.Gio Lopez threw for three touchdowns and ran for another in Wake Forest’s 38-14 win over North Carolina State on Saturday.Lopez was 26-for-33 with 303 yards in the air as the Demon Deacons (5-1, 3-1 Atlantic Coast Conference) won their third game in a row, undeterred by a rainy second half.“We were down at halftime,” Lopez said. “There was no head-hanging. … I think it shows...
Gio Lopez threw for three touchdowns and ran for another in Wake Forest’s 38-14 win over N.C. State on Saturday.
Gio Lopez threw for three touchdowns and ran for another in Wake Forest’s 38-14 win over North Carolina State on Saturday.
Lopez was 26-for-33 with 303 yards in the air as the Demon Deacons (5-1, 3-1 Atlantic Coast Conference) won their third game in a row, undeterred by a rainy second half.
“We were down at halftime,” Lopez said. “There was no head-hanging. … I think it shows we’re battle-tested.”
Jack Foley racked up 156 receiving yards on eight catches and Carlos Hernandez had 117 receiving yards on 12 receptions. They each made a touchdown reception.
N.C. State’s CJ Bailey was 28-for-40 for 241, with a costly first-quarter fumble. He recovered from that by completing his first 16 passes until an attempt was deflected late in the second quarter for the Wolfpack (3-3, 1-2), who led 14-10 at halftime.
“They outplayed us in the second half,” N.C. State coach Dave Doeren said. “We did a lot of good things in the first half. We had enough stops in the first half. We came out in the second half, and it was the opposite; we couldn’t stop them.”
Lopez threw 6 yards to Hernandez and 10 yards to Foley for third-quarter scores. He plowed in from 1 yard out later in the quarter as the margin grew to 31-14.
The Wolfpack had only six second-half first downs, while Wake Forest tallied 265 yards after halftime.
“A lot of times they’re running the same plays, and we’re not defending them with discipline,” Doeren said.
Wake Forest’s Braylon Johnson returned Bailey’s fumble on the opening possession to the 2-yard line. Two plays later, Lopez connected with Matthew Lusardi on a 1-yard TD toss.
Wake Forest reached the N.C. State 1 in the final seconds of the first half but, after a penalty, settled for Connor Calvert’s 23-yard field goal on the last snap of the half to finish a 16-play, 89-yard drive.
Wake Forest: The Demon Deacons have won two road games and a home romp past Stanford since losing to nationally ranked Miami. Their best defensive performances have come in the past two games.
N.C. State: The Wolfpack’s two-game winning streak ended, and there wasn’t much to build on after allowing the game’s final 31 points. The offense generated only 15 yards on the ground.
It’s the second week in a row that Wake Forest didn’t allow a second-half point.
“It means we did what we’re supposed to do,” Johnson said. “We did our job. … It’s a momentum-based game. Everybody is feeding off of it.”
The Demon Deacons have outscored opponents by 119-41 in the second half of games this season.
N.C. State has a week off, and there will be plenty to address.
“Attack it,” linebacker Popo Aguirre said. “We got to be a little bit more disciplined.”
Doeren noted it’s imperative that the Wolfpack get some injured players back in action.
“Sometimes personnel wins,” Doeren said. “Today, it did.”
Wake Forest: At California next Saturday.
N.C. State: At Stanford on Oct. 23.
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