Louisville Edges Out NC State By A Field Goal

RALEIGH, NC – In a nail-biting clash, NC State (3-2,1-1) fell to the University of Louisville (5-0,3-0) with a final score of 13-10, thanks to a field goal late in the game by the Cardinals.

In the opening of the game, a booming 65-yard kickoff became a touchback for a Louisville possession to start the first half. Running back Jawhar Jordan secured the first down, but their momentum was short-lived as the Cardinals punted the ball 26 yards, allowing Wolfpack’s Jalen Coit to make a fair catch.

The Cardinals found some trouble, resulting in 5 penalties costing the team 51 yards before the half.

NC State quarterback Brennan Armstrong stayed in his pocket, but he found a way to rush the ball for additional yardage when needed. He connected with tight end Trent Pennix for a 1-yard gain for a first down before rushing in for a 4-yard touchdown, resulting in the first score of the game, making it 0-7.

Continuing closer to the half, Louisville struggled to keep possession of the ball as the Cardinals were starting to find rhythm for the offense. Quarterback Jack Plummer was sacked by Sean Brown, forcing a fumble that was recovered by Wolfpack linebacker Payton Wilson.

However, with the Cardinals’ defensive efforts in the first half, Cardinals defensive back Quincy Riley was able to disrupt passes between the Wolfpack, as they were consistently making it difficult for Louisville to advance down the field.

Louisville grabbed possession of the ball as time ticked down. Cardinals quarterback Jack Plummer attempted a pass that was intercepted by cornerback Shyheim Battle.

As halftime neared, Wolfpack kicker Brayden Narveson, with a successful field goal, allowed the Wolfpack to lead 10-0.

With statements from Wolfpacks Head Coach Dave Doeren spoke on the team’s momentum and highlighted their performance.

“We got to give Brennan enough time; we got to block. They’re getting to us fast in the back.” Coach Doeren stated.

Kicking off the second half, NC State comes through with some continued momentum, giving the necessary time to set up plays, completing first downs, and allowing wide receiver Terrel Timmons Jr. to complete an outstanding 45-yard catch.

However, the Cardinals’ defensive back, Cam’Ron Kelly, came back and intercepted a pass, giving Louisville possession once again.

In the final moments, Louisville executed game-winning plays to turn around for their victory as the game clock ticked down.

NC State’s quarterback, Armstrong, completed 13 out of 25 tosses with 112 passing yards while facing challenges with 2 interceptions. He showed resilience in this game. To push back on the 2 sacks received, the offensive line had to tighten up to protect the quarterback. Armstrong also took matters into his own hands, carrying the ball 17 times for 61 yards, showcasing versatility on the field.

Running back Michael Allen contributed with 8 carries for 26 yards, providing support to the team’s offensive efforts. Wide receiver Terrell Timmons Jr. showcased great plays, finishing up with 3 receptions for 71 yards.

On the defensive front, NC State faced the task of containing Cardinals quarterback Jack Plummer and their explosive offense including playmakers, running back Jordan Jawhar, and wide receivers Chris Bell and Jamari Thrash from overcoming NC State.

Despite the challenge, defensive backs Wilson Payton and Sean Brown stepped up, combining for an impressive 18 total tackles = with 4 sacks, resulting in a loss of 40 yards for the Cardinals.

NC State is gearing up to face Marshall University on Saturday, October 7, 2023, at Carter-Finley Stadium at 2 p.m.