NC State Keys to Victory vs Mississippi State

RALIEGH NC – The NC State Wolfpack are set to travel to Davis Wade Stadium to battle the Mississippi State Bulldogs on Saturday night in an exciting week 2 matchup. The Pack will attempt to make a statement by defeating an SEC opponent on the road to remain undefeated in 2021. 

3 Keys to Victory & Score Prediction 

Avoid big plays in the secondary:  Following a terrific showing a week ago pitching a shutout, the secondary of the Pack will have their hands full heading into Mississippi State. The Bulldogs compiled over 400 total yards of offense versus LA Tech, including QB Will Rogers going off for 370 passing yards and 3 touchdowns. Against a hire-powered offense, it is critical for a Pack secondary who collected 3 interceptions against USF not to let this Bulldogs offense take over. 

Let Devin Leary loose: The Pack will need to put together an elite showing on the offensive side if they want to come out victorious. Their success will ride on QB Devin Leary who had a productive first game, but the Pack should let him loose even more after shaking off the rust. It also bodes well for Leary that he has one of the better offensive lines in the ACC protecting him. With the Bulldogs most likely preparing for a heavy rushing attack, this will create opportunities for Leary in terms of utilizing the play-action. Look for Leary’s favorite target Emeka Emezie who led all receivers with 5 receptions for 71 yards to be heavily involved. If anyone can take away the pressure off the Pack defense, it is Leary as he is due for a big night. 

Win time of possession: In a contest expected to be high-scoring, the Pack will need to extend drives and avoid 3 and outs to keep their defense off the field. It is always tough to compete in a hostile environment, and scoring points and eating the clock will set the tone for the entire team.

Game prediction: NC State will make a statement and lock down the Bulldogs offense enough to roll to 2-0 by snagging a crucial road victory by a score of 28-24.