Wolfpack Emerging as a Dark Horse in the ACC
After finishing outside the top 5 in the ACC last season, NC State has positioned itself as a major underdog this year.
In 2024, the Wolfpack ended with a 3-5 conference record, placing them in the middle of the pack. Ranked 20th nationally before the season started, expectations were high for NC State to make a bowl game, but they fell short with a 6-7 record.
Mistakes before and during games, including key losses to teams like Wake Forest (34-30), where they were favored, hindered their progress. A lack of execution from star players contributed to their struggles.
However, the 2025 season brings new hope for NC State.
The first thing to note is their schedule. In Week 1, the Wolfpack faces East Carolina, a team that beat them 26-21 last year. NC State will be eager for revenge, and a strong start with a win could provide the confidence and momentum needed for their ACC matchups.
Their first conference game will be against Virginia, a team with a similar 5-7 record from the previous season. NC State has a solid chance to open their ACC campaign with a victory, given Virginia’s lack of dominance in recent years. With the right game plan and key players stepping up, the Wolfpack should be able to capitalize on this opportunity.
The next set of games will be crucial for NC State’s ACC title hopes. After beating Virginia, they’ll need to take care of business at Wake Forest, where they lost a heartbreaker 34-30 last season. These close matchups will be key in determining their path to the top of the conference.
The Wolfpack will also need to secure wins against teams like Duke, Virginia Tech, and Florida State—programs that are coming off down years. NC State has the talent and returning players to make a statement against these teams.
There are still some tough games ahead, including a matchup with North Carolina, who boasts a strong recruiting class. While the Tar Heels may have fresh talent, NC State’s experienced squad could have the edge in terms of on-field execution.
The true test for the Wolfpack’s ACC title chances will come in their showdown with Miami. Last season, Miami led the ACC for much of the year and is hungry to reclaim the title. However, NC State is motivated by the underdog narrative, using doubt and being underestimated as fuel to potentially shock the ACC.
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