The NC State Wolfpack Jumps to #19 in First College Football Playoff Rankings

RALEIGH NC – The NC State Wolfpack (6-2) are back into the thick of things coming in ranked #19 in the first College Football Playoff Rankings. They responded after dropping out of the top 25 in the AP Poll entering week 9 with a bounceback 28-13 victory over Louisville in last week’s homecoming. 

The defense was tremendous despite being extremely short-handed. LB Drake Thomas proved how badly he was missed in the Miami loss, leading all defenders in total tackles racking up 15, and also adding 2 sacks. The memorable performance earned him ACC linebacker of the week honors.

The running game on the offensive side was quiet, totaling just 49 total yards, but the air attack was at its best. QB Devin Leary continued to build on his terrific year putting together another turnover-free outing. He completed 25-35 passes, 317 passing yards, and 4 touchdowns. On the campaign, Leary has totaled 2,161 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions.

Again, Emeka Emezie seemed to be his go-to guy, no surprise there. The Packs all-time receptions leader added 5 catches, 91 yards, and a score. His 543 yards on the year leads all Pack receivers and is ranked 11th in the ACC in that respective category.

The Pack still trail Wake Forest as they sit in second place in the ACC Atlantic standings, but the win versus Lousiville still keeps their hopes alive. The two teams are expected to meet for a massive week 11 clash next week at Wake Forest. With four games remaining, the Pack will only see ACC competition the rest of the way.

The Pack will now shift their focus to the Florida State Seminoles (3-5) as they travel to Tallahassee, Florida. FSU has been disappointing but cannot be taken lightly. Game time is set for 4:00 PM on Saturday, as the Pack begins as 2.5 point favorites.