It would be a further fall for this squad.
The 2024 season was a disappointing one for NC State out of the ACC. Now, David Pollack doesn’t see things getting much better this fall.
On his podcast, the former ESPN analyst took a hard stance on the Wolfpack’s outlook for 2025. Despite four straight winning seasons before last year, Pollack believes NC State is headed in the wrong direction.
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“NC State, there's a very good chance they fall off a cliff,” Pollack said.
FIRST OPPONENT BLUES: Former “College Gameday” contributor David Pollack didn’t have a lot of good things to say about @ECUPiratesFB ’s first opponent for the 2025 season. https://t.co/YwT9yhrNK8pic.twitter.com/1cDXudBTic
— Pirate Radio ☠️ (@PR927FM) July 13, 2025
The Wolfpack finished 6-7 last year, a major drop from their strong eight- and nine-win campaigns in previous seasons. Hopes were high heading into 2024, but the team struggled across the board, especially on offense.
Even ESPN’s Football Power Index doesn’t paint a great picture. It projects a 6-6 record for NC State in 2025 and gives the team just a 1.3% chance to win the ACC. The FPI ranks the Wolfpack 11th in the conference heading into the new season.
While NC State returns more than half of its overall production, including nearly 75% on offense, but the numbers don’t tell the whole story. Last season, the Wolfpack ranked just 76th in total offense and failed to show rhythm on the ground or through the air.
Quarterback CJ Bailey is back after throwing for 2,413 yards and 17 touchdowns. He’ll be joined by tight end Justin Joly, tackle Jacarrius Peak, running back Hollywood Smothers, and defensive tackle Brandon Cleveland. But the defense, which was a strong point in years past, returns just 53% of its production and could take a step back.
The Wolf Pack kicks off its 2025 season at home against East Carolina on August 28.
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