Ex-North Carolina QB Gio Lopez transfers to Wake Forest

Field Level Media|published: Wed 7th January, 20:01 2026

Oct 31, 2025; Syracuse, New York, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Gio Lopez (7) warms up before a game against the Syracuse Orange at the JMA Wireless Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

North Carolina quarterback Gio Lopez will continue his career 75 miles to the west after signing with Wake Forest on Wednesday.

The Demon Deacons needed a new signal caller with Robby Ashford out of eligibility.

Lopez passed for 1,747 yards and 10 touchdowns against five interceptions in 2025 for the Bill Belichick-coached Tar Heels. He added three rushing scores.

Interestingly, Lopez didn't lead North Carolina on a single touchdown drive when the Atlantic Coast Conference rivals met this season. Wake Forest limited the Tar Heels to four field goals in a 28-12 victory.

Lopez completed 21 of 36 passes for 201 yards against the Demon Deacons.

Lopez played at South Alabama for two seasons prior to transferring to North Carolina. He was the Jaguars' starter in 2024 and passed for 2,559 yards with 18 touchdowns and five interceptions, while also rushing for 463 yards and seven scores.

--Field Level Media

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