Wake Forest Demon Deacons vs Akron Zips kick-off time
Here is everything you need to know to watch and live stream the NCAAF Week 1 matchup between the Wake Forest Demon Deacons and the Akron Zips. The game is scheduled to kick off on Thursday, September 3, at 7:00 p.m. ET.
How to watch and live stream Wake Forest vs AKR
Whether you are watching on traditional television or streaming on the go, there are a few convenient ways to catch the action. The game will be televised nationally on the ACC Network. For digital and mobile viewers, you can stream the game live using ESPN Unlimited, which allows you to watch directly on your connected smart TV, phone, or tablet
READ MORE: NCAAF on TV today
If you are looking to live stream the game without a long-term cable commitment, Fubo is a fantastic option that includes the ACC Network on its Elite and Pro plans - both of which also include ESPN Unlimited.
You can watch the game completely for free by taking advantage of Fubo’s five-day free trial, which is available to all new subscribers.
To get started, simply visit the Fubo website, set up an account, and select a base subscription plan. Although you will need to enter a credit or debit card to activate the trial, you will not be charged as long as you remember to cancel your account in your settings before the five-day period expires.
After signing up, download the Fubo app on your preferred smart device, log in, and navigate to the ACC Network to enjoy the college football action at no cost.
How to watch anywhere with VPN
For American football fans in the US, a VPN, like ExpressVPN, primarily solves region-locking restrictions by bypassing local TV blackouts. By connecting to a server in a different city or country, fans can watch out-of-market matchups or access cheaper, comprehensive international streaming packages like DAZN's NFL Game Pass, which includes every game live.
Additionally, VPN encryption prevents Internet Service Providers from throttling your bandwidth during high-traffic broadcasts, secures your personal data on public Wi-Fi networks, and allows you to access domestic streaming subscriptions like YouTube TV while traveling abroad.
Wake Forest vs Akron Preview
Akron opens the 2026 season after finishing 5-7 last year. The Zips closed 2025 with a 19-16 win over Bowling Green, with running back Jordan Gant rushing for 86 yards to finish the season with 1,032. Gant became Akron’s first 1,000-yard rusher since 2008 and returns as one of the team’s main offensive options. Akron also brings back kicker Matthew Schramm, who made all four of his field-goal attempts in the season finale, including one from 48 yards.
Wake Forest is also beginning their 2026 season after going 9-4 in Jake Dickert’s first season as head coach. The Demon Deacons ended last year with a 43-29 win over Mississippi State in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. Wide receiver Carlos Hernandez returns after leading Wake Forest with 40 catches for 611 yards and three receiving touchdowns, while defensive lineman Langston Hardy is back after leading the ACC with 17 tackles for loss and adding seven sacks. Wake Forest will host Akron on Thursday night at Allegacy Financial Stadium.
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DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream offers the closest experience to traditional cable, ensuring you get virtually every local broadcast affiliate, national sports channel, and regional network available. It is the best choice for fans who want zero channel gaps, unlimited Cloud DVR, and seamless local coverage.
Free five day trial available.
Sling TV
Sling TV delivers the lowest entry price for college football, allowing you to secure core channels like ESPN, FS1, and key conference networks without paying for a bloated channel package. It is the most flexible, cost-effective choice for fans looking to watch big matchups on a strict budget.
Flexible passes available.
Fubo
Built specifically for die-hard sports fans, Fubo lets you stream up to four live games simultaneously on compatible devices so you never miss a Saturday kickoff. It includes essential college sports channels in its base plans alongside 4K broadcast options for major games.
Free five day trial available.
DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream offers the closest experience to traditional cable, ensuring you get virtually every local broadcast affiliate, national sports channel, and regional network available. It is the best choice for fans who want zero channel gaps, unlimited Cloud DVR, and seamless local coverage.
Free five day trial available.
Sling TV
Sling TV delivers the lowest entry price for college football, allowing you to secure core channels like ESPN, FS1, and key conference networks without paying for a bloated channel package. It is the most flexible, cost-effective choice for fans looking to watch big matchups on a strict budget.
Flexible passes available.
Fubo
Built specifically for die-hard sports fans, Fubo lets you stream up to four live games simultaneously on compatible devices so you never miss a Saturday kickoff. It includes essential college sports channels in its base plans alongside 4K broadcast options for major games.
Free five day trial available.
DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream offers the closest experience to traditional cable, ensuring you get virtually every local broadcast affiliate, national sports channel, and regional network available. It is the best choice for fans who want zero channel gaps, unlimited Cloud DVR, and seamless local coverage.
Free five day trial available.