Historic First Matchup: NC State vs Campbell on Saturday
NC State Prepares for Historic Match Against Campbell
First-Ever Football Clash Between NC State and Campbell
NC State Football is set to host Campbell at Carter-Finley Stadium on Saturday, October 4th, marking the first football meeting between the two programs. The game will be broadcast live on ESPN+ and ACC Network Extra. Geographically close, only 35 miles separate NC State’s Carter-Finley Stadium from Campbell’s Barker-Lane Stadium.
NC State Looks to Break Losing Streak
The Wolfpack aims to return to winning ways after a two-game losing streak as they prepare for consecutive away games post their encounter with the Fighting Camels.
Defensive Strategies Key to Wolfpack’s Performance
A significant factor in NC State’s performance this season has been their ability to minimize big plays. Despite limiting two teams to under 100 rushing yards, the Wolfpack stands 71st nationally in rushing defense. Their victories over East Carolina and Wake Forest saw the NC State defense preventing runs longer than 15 yards. In contrast, the team’s three additional games, where they hold a 1-2 record, saw opponents achieving runs over 60 yards.
Highlighting NC State’s Standout Players
- Caden Noonkester: A veteran punter for the Wolfpack, Noonkester leads with consistency, boasting the longest starting streak on the 2025 squad. His current punting average stands at 46.8 yards, placing him second in the ACC and ninth in the FBS.
- CJ Bailey: Known for efficiency, the quarterback has 80 touches in the red zone, resulting in 25 touchdowns without a single turnover.
- Hollywood Smothers: As the leading rusher in the ACC with 570 yards, Smothers is fourth in the FBS for total yards. His average rushing yards are unmatched in the league, and he holds ninth place in NC State history for career rushing yards per game.
Offensive Line Contributions
The Wolfpack’s offensive line features consistency with starters Jalen Grant, Anthony Carter Jr., Jacarrius Peak, and Teague Andersen, accumulating vast experience with 167 career games and 122 starts. Freshman Spike Sowells also joined the starting lineup, marking a significant achievement as the first true freshman to start on the offensive line since 2019.
Game Implications
With the historic clash against Campbell, NC State aims to halt their losing streak and build momentum for their upcoming road games. The team’s defense and standout player performances will be crucial to securing a victory at this landmark matchup.
