Drake Thomas and Devin Leary Should Continue to Have Career 2021 Campaigns for the Wolfpack

RALEIGH NC – Drake Thomas and Devin Leary, two players who are having career years for the Wolfpack, have their eyes set on Boston College for their clash that will be played on Saturday. The poise of both of these players makes it not surprising that they are having so much success filling up the stat sheet in 2021. This week will be like any other week, with the goal to go 1-0. Nothing changes for this team in terms of preparation, no matter what the circumstances are.

Thomas, a third-year starting linebacker, is on pace to surpass his career-high in tackles, which is 57, and he is currently at 37 through 5 games. He has already secured the most interceptions in his stint with NC State snagging 2 picks. He has stepped up in clutch situations, and after missing the 2021 Spring workouts recovering from surgery, he is arguably in the best shape of his life, resulting in the best version of Drake Thomas we have witnessed.

The 6 footer has taken captain reigns and has run with it since the season-ending injury to defensive star Payton Wilson. Thomas is looked up to by many Pack players in the locker room and is a guy who leads by example by going into work every day and treating every weekly matchup the same. With the BC Eagles on deck for the Pack, Thomas knows how crucial this ACC road game is, and going up against backup QB in Dennis Grosel does not change the preparation for Thomas and this stout Wolfpack defense.

“It is the same as every week you know all these teams, especially when you get to the ACC have played all over the depth chart. So you do not change your approach because he is a backup. You just got to look at the film and get all the keys that it gives you and then go off of that.”

For the offense led by their impressive signal-caller, Devin Leary looks to continue the terrific run they have displayed thus far. The New Jersey native has racked up 1,283 passing yards, 12 touchdown passes, 2 interceptions, and a QBR of 73.8. The total in yards and touchdown passes are good for career highs, with more than half of the season remaining.

Since the 24-10 loss at Mississippi State, he has not committed a turnover and has been the difference-maker in this offense. Going up against a BC defense that is typically tough to pass against and has shown that they can make big plays will present its challenges. However, like Drake, Leary is treating this contest like any other week.

“I do think they are a good defense. You know they are very well-coached. They got a good defensive line and are good in the perimeter, but the key is to execute our plays and execute our plan going into this game. When we have different opportunities and when the stage is set what they are giving us defensively to be able to capitalize on those plays, I think will help us stay in rhythm and help us gain momentum on the road.”  

Being two fearless leaders on and off the field, Drake and Leary should continue their tremendous play in what is set up to be a magical year for the Wolfpack. As 3 point favorites, these two, in particular, will be primary keys to a big-time road victory against BC.