NC State vs. Wake Forest: ACC Showdown Preview

Series History:: NC State leads the all-time series 69-43-6, but recent matchups have been closely contested, with six of the last eight games decided by 10 points or fewer.

Red Zone Defense:: NC State's defense has been stingy in the red zone, ranking second in the ACC and 21st in the FBS, allowing opponents to convert only 62.5% of their trips into points.

Wake Forest's New Look:: Wake Forest has undergone significant roster turnover under first-year head coach Jake Dickert, with 34 transfers and a 26-player high school class.

Quarterback Matchup:: Wake Forest's Robbie Ashford, a transfer from Auburn, is off to a strong start, but NC State will aim to test his decision-making.

Home Field Advantage:: NC State has struggled in Winston-Salem, winning only three games there since 2000. Why This Matters: This game sets the tone for each team's ACC campaign. A win for NC State would solidify their status as a conference contender, while a victory for Wake Forest would signal a promising start under their new coach.

NC State's defensive line vs. Wake Forest's offensive line

NC State's secondary vs. Wake Forest's receivers

Wake Forest's defensive front vs. NC State's rushing attack

This game is crucial for both teams as they begin ACC play.

NC State needs to improve its record in Winston-Salem.

Wake Forest is looking to establish a new identity under Coach Dickert.

Watch for the key matchups in the trenches and in the passing game.