Wolfpack Claws Back: NC State Defeats Wake Forest in Thrilling Rivalry Battle

HC Brent Key GT

The autumn air crackled with electricity as two bitter rivals took the field under the Friday night lights. What unfolded was a masterclass in momentum swings, clutch performances, and the raw emotion that makes college football unforgettable.

Lightning Strike Opening

Wake Forest wasted no time announcing their intentions. On the opening kickoff, the Demon Deacons' return man found a seam in the coverage and exploded through it like a bolt of lightning. The crowd erupted as he raced 98 yards untouched to the end zone, with blockers clearing the path ahead of him. The extra point sailed through the uprights, putting Wake Forest ahead 7-0 before most fans had even settled into their seats.

The early knockout punch seemed to rattle NC State. The Wolfpack's offense sputtered on their first possession, with quarterback CJ Bailey showing poise in the pocket but struggling to find his accuracy. His passes sailed high and wide, leaving receivers grasping at air as Wake Forest's defense swarmed with confidence.

The Deacons' Aerial Assault

With 7:19 remaining in the first quarter, Wake Forest struck again. This time it was #1 D. Claiborne who found pay dirt, capping off a methodical drive that showcased the Demon Deacons' balanced attack. The touchdown extended their lead to 14-0, and the gold and black faithful roared their approval from the stands.

The Demon Deacons' offense was firing on all cylinders in those opening minutes, moving the ball with surgical precision and leaving the Wolfpack defense scrambling to adjust.

Bailey's Breakthrough

But championship-caliber teams don't fold under pressure—they respond. The Wolfpack gathered themselves and began to march down the field with renewed purpose. Bailey found his rhythm, keeping the ball himself on a crucial scramble that showcased his dual-threat ability. The quarterback's legs carried him for significant yardage, while running back H. Smothers provided the complementary punch that kept the chains moving.

Facing fourth and one with 2:38 left in the first quarter, head coach Dave Doeren made a gutsy call that would define his team's fighting spirit. Instead of punting or attempting a field goal, he kept his offense on the field. Bailey delivered under pressure, finding #7 J. Joly in the end zone for a 5-yard touchdown strike. The successful conversion brought the score to 14-7 with 2:35 remaining in the opening frame.

Defensive Fireworks

Just when it seemed Wake Forest might regain control, the Wolfpack defense produced the play of the game. With under two minutes remaining in the first quarter, #88 I. Shirley read the quarterback's intentions perfectly, stepping in front of the intended receiver and snatching the pass out of the air. What happened next sent the red and white section of the stadium into delirium.

Shirley rumbled 41 yards down the sideline, dodging tackles and high-stepping into the end zone for a spectacular pick-six. The momentum had completely shifted as the Wolfpack knotted the game at 14-14 with 1:19 left in the first quarter.

Second Quarter Surge

The second quarter belonged to the quarterbacks. Wake Forest's #2 R. Ashford showcased his mobility with a perfectly executed keeper, slicing through the Wolfpack defense for six points. The touchdown put the Demon Deacons back in front 21-14 with 12:12 remaining in the half.

Despite Ashford's success moving the ball through the air, the Wolfpack defense tightened up when it mattered most. NC State managed to get back on the board, but their red zone struggles became apparent as Bailey's passes fell incomplete and his rushing attempts were stonewalled by a stiffening Wake Forest defense.

The Demon Deacons tacked on a field goal to extend their lead to 24-14 with 4:07 left in the half. The Wolfpack managed to salvage three points of their own before the break, making it a 24-17 game at halftime.

Second Half Chess Match

The third quarter turned into a tactical battle between two well-coached teams. NC State received the opening kickoff but went three-and-out, unable to capitalize on their opportunity to seize momentum. Wake Forest similarly struggled to sustain drives, leading to a series of punts and field position battles.

Bailey eventually found his groove again, methodically moving the Wolfpack down the field. A timely pass interference call against the Demon Deacons gave NC State additional life, and they capitalized with Joly's second touchdown of the game. The score was deadlocked at 24-24 with 6:22 remaining in the third quarter.

Fourth Quarter Heroics

As the final quarter began, both teams sensed the urgency. The Wolfpack offense, sparked by Bailey's leadership, began to click at precisely the right moment. Another Wake Forest pass interference penalty gave NC State excellent field position, and Bailey made them pay.

The quarterback found #8 K. Jackson for a 12-yard touchdown reception that sent the visiting fans into a frenzy. For the first time all game, the Wolfpack held the lead at 31-24 with 12:23 remaining.

The defense that had been bend-but-don't-break all evening suddenly found another gear. They forced a crucial turnover, giving their offense the opportunity to add an insurance field goal. The three points made it 34-24 and provided some breathing room with 5:18 left on the clock.

Controversial Finish

Just when it appeared the Wolfpack had sealed the victory, controversy struck. The defense recorded what seemed to be a game-clinching sack, but replay review revealed a targeting penalty against #54 S. Harsh. The senior linebacker was disqualified from the game, and Wake Forest received 15 yards and an automatic first down.

The hearts of Wolfpack faithful sank as they watched their defensive leader walk off the field. But champions find a way to overcome adversity, and NC State's defense had one more spectacular play in them.

On the very next snap, #2 R. Royal III stepped up with the play of his career. The defensive back read Ashford's pass perfectly, hauling in the interception with 5:02 remaining. The turnover effectively sealed the victory for the Wolfpack, though both teams knew that in rivalry games, nothing is guaranteed until the final whistle.

Rivalry Renewed

This game epitomized everything that makes college football special—momentum swings, clutch performances, and the unpredictable nature of sport. Bailey's leadership in crucial moments, combined with timely defensive plays and gutsy coaching decisions, helped the Wolfpack overcome an early deficit to claim victory in this heated rivalry matchup.

The win demonstrated NC State's resilience and character, traits that will serve them well as the season progresses. For Wake Forest, despite the loss, they showed they could compete with anyone when their offense is clicking on all cylinders.

As the fans filed out into the crisp night air, both sides knew they had witnessed something special—a game that will be remembered for years to come in this storied rivalry.