Talk about a nail-biter! NC State kicked off their season with an intense 24-17 win against East Carolina, thanks to a heart-stopping defensive stop in the final seconds. ECU almost pulled off the comeback, but the Wolfpack defense held firm. Did you see that incredible fourth-down stand?
In a thrilling season opener, the NC State Wolfpack clinched a hard-fought 24-17 victory over the East Carolina Pirates, a win dramatically sealed by a crucial fourth-down defensive stand in the waning moments. This intense college football showdown showcased both teams’ resilience, ultimately seeing NC State emerge triumphant thanks to a stout defensive effort when it mattered most.
The East Carolina Pirates mounted a formidable comeback attempt after trailing 17-0 before halftime. Their late-game surge pushed them deep into Wolfpack territory, reaching the 9-yard line on a drive that threatened to tie the contest. With just 37 seconds remaining, quarterback Katin Houser delivered a short pass to Desirrio Riles, setting the stage for the game’s decisive play.
However, the NC State Wolfpack defense held firm under immense pressure. Defensive back Jamel Johnson initiated the stop with a powerful hit, driving Riles laterally toward the sideline, while Ronnie Royal III provided the crucial assist to complete the tackle out of bounds. This extraordinary defensive stand epitomized the team’s determination and ultimately preserved their narrow lead.
Post-game, Wolfpack defensive end Cian Slone, who contributed significantly with seven tackles and three hurries, proudly stated, “When it came down to it, in our red zone, we bowed up, stopped them on fourth down and we won the game.” Conversely, ECU coach Blake Harrell acknowledged “Game 1 things” hindered his squad, revealing the Pirates’ intention to go for a two-point conversion and the win if they had managed to score on that final drive.
This latest encounter continued a historically testy instate series between the two North Carolina rivals. Their previous meeting in last year’s Military Bowl saw ECU defeat NC State 26-21, a game that Wolfpack coach Dave Doeren famously remarked “tarnished our reputation” due to defensive struggles and a sideline scuffle. This time, however, the contest was marked by strategic play rather than major sparks.
East Carolina’s early struggles proved to be a significant hurdle throughout the game, as they sputtered out of the gate with four consecutive three-and-outs to start the game. A high snap over Houser resulted in a costly 23-yard loss, and two critical third-down penalties extended NC State’s third-quarter touchdown drive. These ten penalties underscored a performance with plenty for Coach Harrell’s squad to rectify.
For NC State, the defensive unit, operating under new coordinator D.J. Elliot, delivered a stellar performance, particularly in stifling ECU’s ground game. After allowing 326 rushing yards in their last bowl meeting, the Wolfpack limited the Pirates to a mere 30 yards on 29 carries. Their prowess was further demonstrated by three crucial fourth-down stops throughout the contest, highlighting their enhanced defensive strength in this season opener.
Despite the defensive brilliance, NC State did encounter some special teams hiccups, with kicker Nick Koniecznski missing two fourth-quarter field goals that could have provided a larger cushion. Nevertheless, the football victory serves as a strong start for the Wolfpack, while the Pirates will look to clean up their early-season miscues as they both navigate the challenges of the upcoming ACC football schedule.
