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NC State vs. Wake Forest: 2025 College Football Week 3 Preview

9 months agoUS
NC State vs. Wake Forest: 2025 College Football Week 3 PreviewSource: cbssports.com
The NC State Wolfpack (2-0) and the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (2-0) are set to clash in a Week 3 ACC showdown at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium. Both teams are looking to maintain their undefeated records, adding extra intrigue to this historic rivalry, the longest-running in the ACC, dating back to 1895. NC State leads the series 69-43-6. This game marks an important early conference matchup for both teams.

Key Insights

Rivalry:: This is the longest-running rivalry in the ACC, with NC State holding a significant lead in the series.

NC State’s Offense:: Sophomore quarterback C.J. Bailey and sophomore running back Hollywood Smothers lead the Wolfpack offense. Bailey’s dual-threat capability and Smothers’ powerful running style pose challenges for Wake Forest’s defense.

Wake Forest’s New Look:: Wake Forest has a new head coach, Jake Dickert, who has brought in a significant number of transfers. Quarterback Robby Ashford, a transfer himself, keys the offense.

Ashford’s Dual Threat:: Robby Ashford, with prior experience at Auburn and South Carolina, brings a dual-threat capability to Wake Forest’s offense, both passing and running.

Defensive Additions for Wake Forest:: Wake Forest has added productive defensive players, including Jayden Loving, Langston Hardy, and Gabe Kirschke, aiming to improve their defense.

In-Depth Analysis

NC State Wolfpack Analysis:

NC State is coming off a 35-31 win over Virginia. Quarterback C.J. Bailey completed 16 of 23 passes for 200 yards and one touchdown, adding 44 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Hollywood Smothers rushed 17 times for 140 yards and two touchdowns. The Wolfpack’s offense will test Wake Forest’s defense with a balanced attack.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons Analysis:

Wake Forest defeated Western Carolina 42-10, following a less convincing win over Kennesaw State. Quarterback Robby Ashford has completed 33 of 50 passes for 445 yards and one touchdown, also rushing for 108 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Demond Claiborne had a standout performance against Western Carolina. Wake Forest’s offense relies on Ashford’s ability to make plays and a strong running game.

Key Matchups:

NC State’s Defensive Line vs. Wake Forest’s Offensive Line:: NC State’s ability to pressure Ashford will be crucial.

Wake Forest’s Defense vs. NC State’s Rushing Attack:: Containing Hollywood Smothers will be a key task for Wake Forest.

Why This Matters:

This game matters because it’s an early-season ACC matchup that can set the tone for conference play. For NC State, a win would solidify their strong start. For Wake Forest, it’s an opportunity to showcase their new identity under Coach Dickert.

FAQs

What time is the game?

7:30 PM ET.

Where is the game being played?

Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium in Winston-Salem, N.C.

What TV channel is the game on?

ESPN.

Where can I stream the game?

Fubo (Try for free!).

Key Takeaways

This game is a significant early-season ACC contest.

Watch for the performance of dual-threat quarterbacks C.J. Bailey and Robby Ashford.

Pay attention to Wake Forest’s new defensive additions and how they impact NC State’s rushing attack.

Discussion

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