Who will come out on top when the Tennessee Volunteers face the NC State Wolfpack on September 7, 2024? This game, held at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, promises to be a thrilling showdown. Tennessee, ranked No. 14, boasts a high-powered offense led by quarterback Nico Iamaleava. Meanwhile, NC State, ranked No. 24, has strengthened its roster with key transfers like quarterback Grayson McCall. The Volunteers lead the series 2-1, but the Wolfpack's defense has been solid in recent seasons. Both teams have playoff aspirations, making this matchup crucial. Let's dive into 30 key facts about this exciting game.
Key Takeaways:
- Tennessee Volunteers and NC State Wolfpack are set for an epic clash, with Tennessee favored to win. The game's outcome could impact both teams' playoff hopes and national rankings.
- With Tennessee's high-powered offense and NC State's strong defense, the game's key matchup will be a thrilling battle between offense and defense. The winner will claim the prestigious Duke’s Mayo Classic title.
The Teams and Their Rankings
The Tennessee Volunteers and the NC State Wolfpack are gearing up for an exciting clash. Both teams bring strong rosters and high expectations to the field.
- Tennessee Volunteers: Ranked No. 14 in the nation, the Volunteers are known for their high-powered offense under coach Josh Heupel.
- NC State Wolfpack: Ranked No. 24, the Wolfpack has been a top team in the ACC for several years, bolstered by key transfers like running back Waters and quarterback Grayson McCall.
The Series Record
The history between these two teams is brief but intense, with only three games played so far.
- Tennessee leads the series 2-1, with their last meeting being a 35-21 win in the 2012 Chick-Fil-A Kickoff Game in Atlanta.
The Neutral Site
Playing at a neutral site adds an extra layer of excitement and importance to this matchup.
- The game will be held at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, North Carolina, providing a fresh battleground for both teams.
The Duke’s Mayo Classic
This game is part of a prestigious event that brings together top-ranked teams from different conferences.
- The winner of this game will take home the title and bragging rights of the Duke’s Mayo Classic.
Tennessee’s Offense
Tennessee's offense is one of the most potent in the nation, led by a standout quarterback.
- Quarterback Nico Iamaleava leads the Volunteers, who scored on their first seven drives and finished with 718 total yards in their season opener against Chattanooga.
NC State’s Defense
NC State's defense has been a cornerstone of their success over the past few seasons.
- The Wolfpack's defense will face a significant challenge in containing Tennessee’s dynamic passing attack.
Key Matchup: Offense vs. Defense
The game will likely hinge on how well NC State's defense can handle Tennessee's high-octane offense.
- Tennessee’s ability to score quickly and efficiently will test the Wolfpack’s defensive prowess.
NC State’s Offense
NC State has bolstered its offense with key transfers, making them a formidable opponent.
- Quarterback Grayson McCall and running back Waters are key additions who will look to lead the Wolfpack to a competitive performance.
Players to Watch
Both teams have standout players who could make a significant impact on the game.
- Nico Iamaleava (Tennessee): The five-star recruit set a school record with 314 yards in the first half of his first home start.
- James Pierce Jr. (Tennessee): A sophomore edge rusher with a 91.9 pass rush grade last year.
- Grayson McCall (NC State): The veteran quarterback known for his pinpoint accuracy.
- KC Concepcion (NC State): A true sophomore wide receiver who started the year with three touchdowns against Western Carolina.
Betting Insights
For those interested in the betting aspect, Tennessee is currently favored.
- Tennessee is a 9.0-point favorite according to DraftKings, with the line opening at 5.5 in favor of the Volunteers.
NC State’s Transfer Portal Additions
NC State has significantly strengthened its roster through the transfer portal.
- The Wolfpack acquired seasoned players like running back Waters and quarterback Grayson McCall, positioning them as a leading contender for the ACC title.
Tennessee’s Strength Outside SEC
Tennessee has an impressive record outside the Southeastern Conference.
- Under coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee boasts a 14-2 record outside the SEC, including 12-1 in the regular season and 11 consecutive wins.
NC State’s Recent Performance
NC State had a mixed performance in their season opener but managed to secure a win.
- In their season opener against Western Carolina, NC State rallied to secure a 38-21 victory despite initial struggles.
Tennessee’s Dominance in Non-SEC Games
Tennessee has shown remarkable defensive prowess in non-SEC games.
- The Volunteers have not allowed a touchdown in 13 straight quarters when playing non-SEC teams and eight straight overall.
NC State’s Defense Against Drake Maye
NC State has shown strength in defending against top quarterbacks.
- The Wolfpack managed to hold their own against Drake Maye and the Tar Heels in recent encounters.
NC State’s Secondary
The secondary will play a crucial role in containing Tennessee’s passing attack.
- Led by veteran cornerback Aydan White, NC State’s secondary will need to step up against Tennessee’s dynamic offense.
Tennessee’s Star Center Cooper Mays
Tennessee’s offensive line, anchored by a star center, will be a significant challenge for NC State.
- Star center Cooper Mays and a veteran offensive line featuring multi-year starters will pose a significant challenge for NC State’s defensive line.
NC State’s Pass Protection
NC State’s pass protection was stellar in their season opener.
- The Wolfpack allowed Grayson McCall ample time to throw, but they face a different challenge with Tennessee’s pass rush.
Grayson McCall’s Adjustments
Grayson McCall is still adjusting to a new offense and timing.
- McCall had some throws where the accuracy wasn’t totally great, but his pass protection was excellent against Western Carolina.
Anthony Belton and Jakarius Peak
NC State’s tackles are NFL prospects who performed well in their season opener.
- Anthony Belton and Jakarius Peak combined for an 87.4 pass pro grade but will face a significant challenge with Tennessee’s pass rush.
James Pierce Jr.’s Pass Rush Grade
James Pierce Jr. is one of the best pass rushers in the nation.
- Pierce had a 91.9 pass rush grade last year, tied for the second-most sacks in the power five.
NC State’s Recruiting Hopes
A win in this game could significantly boost NC State’s recruiting efforts.
- A marquee non-conference win in this recruiting hotbed would be a huge boost for the Wolfpack.
Tennessee’s Big Games Ahead
Tennessee has several big games on their schedule that could determine their playoff fate.
- The Volunteers have three big games: against NC State, Alabama, and Georgia. Winning two out of three would make them a lock for the playoffs.
NC State’s Playoff Aspirations
NC State also has playoff aspirations and needs to win games like this to stay in contention.
- A loss could put the Wolfpack out of the running for a playoff spot, making this game crucial for their season.
The ACC’s Struggles
The ACC has had a tough season, making this game even more important for NC State.
- The Wolfpack is one of the few ACC teams that have impressed this season, but they face a significant challenge against Tennessee.
The Game’s Implications
This game has significant implications for both teams, particularly in terms of playoff aspirations.
- A win for either team could propel them into the top 25 and keep them in contention for a playoff spot.
Game Day Showdown
The Tennessee Volunteers and NC State Wolfpack clash on September 7, 2024, promises a thrilling spectacle. Tennessee, ranked No. 14, boasts a high-powered offense led by quarterback Nico Iamaleava. Their impressive 14-2 record outside the SEC highlights their strength. NC State, ranked No. 24, counters with a solid defense and key players like quarterback Grayson McCall and running back Waters. The neutral site at Bank of America Stadium adds excitement, with both teams eager for a marquee win. Tennessee's dynamic offense faces NC State's seasoned defense, making for a compelling matchup. Betting odds favor Tennessee, but NC State's recent transfer additions and strong pass protection could tip the scales. This game holds significant playoff implications, with both teams vying for a top spot. Fans can expect a high-stakes, action-packed showdown that could shape the course of their seasons.
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