NC State Suffers Heart Breaking Loss to Syracuse

RALEIGH, N.C.- The NC State Wolfpack, in their last home game of the season, blew their lead and fell short in the last minute of the game to the Syracuse Orange, 34-31.

In the first half, the Wolfpack leaned on their rushing attack and made their possessions count. CJ Bailey completed 7 of 10 passes for 75 yards, while also contributing 15 rushing yards and a touchdown. NC State is establishing the running game to keep Syracuse’s defense off balance. The Wolfpack continued to improve defensive pressure and limit Syracuse’s offensive opportunities.

NC State went into the locker room with a narrow 7–6 advantage after a competitive first half against Syracuse. Both teams moved the ball well, but the Wolfpack made the biggest play of the half, giving them a one-point lead.

After trailing 7–6 at halftime, both offenses came alive in the second half, combining for 52 points over the final two quarters. The Wolfpack delivered a much stronger offensive performance, scoring 21 points in the third quarter. CJ Bailey helped lead the charge, making plays through the air and on the ground. Jayden Scott also provided a spark in the running game, finishing with 127 rushing yards on 14 carries and a touchdown. NC State’s offense found its rhythm, putting Syracuse’s defense under pressure.

Syracuse delivered when it mattered most, scoring 21 points in the fourth quarter. Quarterback Steve Angeli finished with 272 passing yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions, helping the Orange regain control. A pivotal interception from CJ proved costly when the Orange returned it for a touchdownto make the score 31-26. NC State managed just three points in the final quarter. On Syracuse’s final play with 48 seconds left they reached the endzone off a 11 yard touchdown pass, and then converted the 2-point conversion.

Despite their earlier offensive explosion, the Wolfpack couldn’t keep pace with Syracuse’s late scoring surge. The Wolfpack converted just 4 of 11 third-down opportunities. NC State produced 413 total yards but couldn’t turn enough of that production into points. In the final minute of the game, NC State couldn’t overcome the deficit or get into field goal range, as Syracuse secured the three-point road victory.