NC State’s Surprising Spot: Where They Land in the 2024 Coaches Poll

As college football fans eagerly anticipate the 2024 season, the release of preseason polls provides an early glimpse into how teams might fare. On Monday, the USA Today Coaches Poll unveiled its first rankings, and North Carolina State University (NC State) found itself in the spotlight as one of only two teams from the state to crack the Top 25. The Wolfpack, under the leadership of head coach Dave Doeren, secured the No. 22 spot in the rankings, a testament to their consistent performance and the high expectations surrounding them.

The significance of NC State’s position in the preseason poll cannot be overstated. The Wolfpack concluded the 2023 season at No. 21 in the same poll, and they had even reached as high as No. 18 during the previous year. This consistency highlights the program’s stability and the growing respect it commands within college football circles. For a team that has been steadily climbing the ranks, maintaining a spot in the Top 25 is both a recognition of past achievements and an indication of continued promise.

The 2024 preseason poll features a diverse array of teams from various conferences, but it’s notable that only one other North Carolina team, the University of North Carolina, received votes. This underscores NC State’s prominent position not just within the state but also on a national scale.

The Preseason Top 25 Breakdown

The USA Today Coaches Poll’s Top 25 is dominated by teams from the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and the Big Ten Conference, reflecting the traditional powerhouses of college football. Here’s a closer look at the rankings:

1. Georgia Bulldogs – The reigning champions are ranked No. 1 with 1,364 points. Georgia’s dominance in recent seasons makes them a perennial favorite, and their top spot is a testament to their continued strength and recruiting prowess.
2. Ohio State Buckeyes – Ohio State follows closely at No. 2 with 1,302 points. The Buckeyes have been a consistent force in college football, and their high ranking reflects their robust program and strong recruiting classes.
3. Oregon Ducks – Oregon has risen to No. 3 with 1,228 points. Known for their dynamic offense and innovative approaches, the Ducks are seen as a major contender this season.
4. Texas Longhorns – At No. 4 with 1,223 points, Texas is poised to make a significant impact this season. Their recent performances and high-profile recruits have set them up for a strong showing.
5. Alabama Crimson Tide – Alabama, a staple in the top five, is ranked No. 5 with 1,077 points. Despite losing some key players, the Crimson Tide’s recruiting and coaching stability ensure they remain a top contender.
6. Ole Miss Rebels – Ole Miss comes in at No. 6 with 1,019 points. The Rebels have been building a competitive program, and their high ranking reflects their rising status in college football.
7. Notre Dame Fighting Irish – Notre Dame is ranked No. 7 with 969 points. The Fighting Irish are known for their storied history and consistent performances, which continue to make them a formidable team.
8. Michigan Wolverines – The defending national champions are ranked No. 8 with 944 points. Michigan’s impressive performance last season and their strong roster contribute to their high preseason ranking.
9. Penn State Nittany Lions – Penn State is at No. 9 with 889 points. The Nittany Lions have been steadily improving and are expected to be a strong competitor this season.
10. Florida State Seminoles – Florida State rounds out the top ten with 867 points. Coming off an undefeated season, the Seminoles are a team to watch as they seek to maintain their high level of play.

ACC Representation

NC State is one of four Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) teams in the preseason poll, highlighting the conference’s competitive landscape.

• Florida State leads the ACC at No. 10, reflecting their recent success and strong recruiting efforts.
• Clemson, historically one of the ACC’s powerhouses, is ranked No. 14. Despite some changes, the Tigers are expected to be a major player this season.
• Miami enters the rankings at No. 19, showing promise as they aim to return to their former glory.
• NC State follows at No. 22, maintaining its position as a significant competitor within the conference.

Other ACC teams receiving votes include Louisville, Virginia Tech, SMU, and North Carolina, demonstrating the depth and competitiveness within the conference.

NC State’s Position and Future Outlook

NC State’s ranking at No. 22 reflects both the respect the program commands and the high expectations placed upon it. The Wolfpack’s consistent performance over recent seasons, including a strong finish in 2023, has set the stage for a promising 2024 campaign.

Head coach Dave Doeren has been instrumental in building and maintaining the program’s success. Under his leadership, NC State has established itself as a formidable opponent and a consistent presence in the rankings. The team’s ability to remain in the Top 25 year after year speaks to its stability and the effectiveness of its coaching staff.

Looking ahead, the Wolfpack will need to build on their previous successes and address any areas of improvement to maintain their ranking and potentially climb higher in the polls. Key players will need to step up, and the team will have to navigate a challenging schedule to ensure they remain competitive throughout the season.

The presence of NC State in the preseason Top 25 is a significant achievement and a testament to the program’s growth and potential. As the season progresses, the Wolfpack will look to prove their worth and make a strong case for a higher ranking.

The release of the USA Today Coaches Poll for the 2024 season provides an early look at the college football landscape. NC State’s inclusion at No. 22 highlights the program’s continued relevance and the high expectations surrounding it. As the season unfolds, the Wolfpack will have the opportunity to demonstrate their capability and potentially improve their standing in the rankings. For fans and analysts alike, the upcoming season promises to be an exciting one, with NC State poised to play a significant role in the college football narrative.