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What Is Next For NC State Following Loss Versus Miami?

Joe Scurto

MIAMI FL – The NC State Wolfpack (5-2) lost a heartbreaker on Saturday, falling to Miami (3-4) 31-30 that handed them their second defeat on the 2021 campaign.

In addition to the loss, the Pack defense took a massive blow losing star LB Isaiah Moore for the entirety of the season, marking the third starting defender that they have lost from a season-ending injury in six weeks. The depth has been outstanding; however, coach Dave Doeren made it known in last week’s preparation that this defense does not have more depth to provide if the injuries continue to pile on.

This was a matchup on paper between the Pack defense and Miami offense that should have been to NC State’s advantage. Instead, the Hurricanes, led by Tyler Van Dyke were able to put together an impressive performance. Van Dyke completed 25 of 33 passes for 325 passing yards and 4 touchdowns, with Charleston Rambo hauling in 2 scores, 127 yards, and 9 receptions.

The Pack led at the half 17-14, and the momentum took a significant swing after a fumble recovery was overturned. The Pack offense would have been immediately in the Hurricanes goal line but instead had to re-punt it. The offense then only put up 13 points in the final quarters against a weak Hurricanes defense, which was a disappointment. Leary did extend his turnover-free streak throwing for 310 yards and 2 touchdowns both going to Thayer Thomas, but it was not enough to record the victory.

After the slight setback, what is next for NC State? Well, they are still nationally ranked in the AP Poll but moved down seven spots to 25th. Winning on the road has been the evident weakness of this team, just going 1-2 away from Carter-Finley stadium.

The good news is that they go back home to Raleigh, where they are 4-0 to take on another ACC opponent in Louisville (4-3). For the rest of the way, every week is a must-win situation, especially with #17 Pittsburgh and #13 Wake Forest winning, putting them at the top of the ACC standings. They simply cannot afford to lose another game if they want to have any chance of ACC championship appearance, and would need some help along the way. This was a game that the Wolfpack had to win, but it shows how tough it is to succeed within your conference.