Commonly referred to as “The Predator” among the student body, senior linebacker Nate Irving has been wreaking havoc on the opponent’s backfield all year. After missing last season due to suffering multiple injuries in a car accident, including a collapsed lung and a broken rib, Irving came back to the field with a vengeance and emerged as the leader of the defense. He ranked 10th in the ACC in tackles, tied for 7th in sacks, and tied for 4th with fellow teammate sophomore Earl Wolff in fumbles forced. Irving was also named a first team All-ACC performer this past season. Under his leadership the Pack lead the conference in opponent third down conversion and ranked 2nd in sacks. Irving also made a big splash on the national scene as he was named a second team Walter Camp All-American and a semifinalist for the Butkus Award. He also set an NCAA record this past season with eight tackles for a loss against Wake Forest. As for his place in Wolfpack history, he will certainly be remembered as one of the greats. His career mark of 39.5 tackles for a loss ranks 7th in N.C. State history and his 20.5 mark for the season ranks 4th in State history. With all of these accolades and his never say die attitude, he’s certainly poised to make a splash at the next level.