What's Happening?
NC State's football team achieved a significant comeback victory against Wake Forest, winning 34-24. The game, held in Winston-Salem, saw Wake Forest initially take a strong lead with Chris Barnes returning the opening kickoff for a 98-yard touchdown. Despite this early setback, NC State rallied, with CJ Bailey throwing three touchdown passes, including a crucial 12-yard pass to Keenan Jackson in the fourth quarter. The Wolfpack's defense played a pivotal role, particularly in the second half, limiting Wake Forest to just 44 yards and no points. Defensive tackle Isaiah Shirley contributed with a 41-yard interception return for a touchdown. This win marks NC State's first 3-0 start since 2022.
Why It's Important?
This victory is significant for NC State as it demonstrates their resilience and ability to perform under pressure, particularly in overcoming a 14-point deficit. The win also highlights the effectiveness of their defensive strategies and the leadership of quarterback CJ Bailey. For Wake Forest, the loss under new coach Jake Dickert indicates areas for improvement, especially in maintaining offensive momentum. The outcome of this game impacts the Atlantic Coast Conference standings and sets the tone for both teams' upcoming matches.
What's Next?
NC State will face another in-state rival, Duke, on September 20, which will be a test of their ability to maintain their winning streak. Wake Forest, on the other hand, has an early open date before hosting Georgia Tech on September 27. Both teams will need to address their respective challenges; NC State focusing on sustaining their defensive prowess and Wake Forest on revitalizing their offensive strategies.
