It wasn’t the prettiest offensive showing, but NC State’s defense rose to the challenge to help push the Wolfpack past Northern Illinois 24-17 at Carter-Finley Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Here is what those who covered the game are saying about the Pack’s third win of the season.
Ethan McDowell, The Wolfpacker — Column: NC State defense takes leap forward to overshadow offense’s step back
A short run, a dropped snap, and an NC State passing attempt that sailed over receivers and defenders alike.
The Wolfpack’s first possession of the second half was a microcosm of the program’s offensive struggles during a hard-fought, 24-17 victory over Northern Illinois.
Two plays later, Davin Vann grabbed onto the leg of the Huskies’ quarterback, bringing him to the ground as the ball rolled loose. Brandon Cleveland recovered his first fumble of the year, setting up a touchdown that put the Wolfpack ahead by 10 in the third quarter.
The offense stumbled through Saturday’s win. CJ Bailey avoided turnovers and catastrophic mistakes but finally looked like a freshman after carrying the Pack at times over the past few weeks. This time, it was the defense’s time to will the program to victory.