The N.C. State defensive line hopes to wreak havoc in opposing backfields, and it has worked hard to build the necessary muscle mass to do so. State has an experienced core, returning five players who started at least one game in the 2013 regular season. 

Defensive line coach Ryan Nielsen is entering into his second year with the Pack, and he has challenged the team to become bigger and stronger, which he said he believes will be the keys to a successful season. 

“The guys have done a really good job at gaining size and strength,” Nielson said. “But they’ve also kept the quickness and speed that they need to redirect players and rush the passer.”

Redshirt senior defensive end Art Norman brings a lot of leadership experience to the defensive line after being named captain for three games last season (Clemson, Wake Forest and Boston College). 

Last season, Norman was named ACC Player of the Week after recording a sack and three assisted tackles. Norman played the most snaps among State’s defensive linemen and started all 13 games in 2013. He led the team in sacks, 4.5, and had nine tackles for a loss, which was third on the team. 

Another impact player is senior defensive tackle Thomas Teal. Teal started 10 games in the 2013 season and was second on the team for tackles for loss (11). Teal also showed his versatility, seeing time at defensive tackle and at defensive end and finishing the year with three sacks.

Redshirt junior defensive end Mike Rose saw a good bit of playing time after a standout performance against Clemson, where he recorded six total tackles (one sack, five assisted tackles). Rose played well against Wake Forest too, recording four unassisted tackles.

The Pack also has five incoming impact freshmen. Freshman defensive tackle B.J. Hill is one of the nine freshmen that enrolled early at N.C. State, and he has caught the attention of Nielsen.

“When he [Hill] first got here, he weighed 260 and now he is about 283,” Nielsen said. “He has done a good job buying into the program in terms of size and strength and what you have to do to be a collegiate nose tackle.” 

Nielsen said Hill has made some huge steps in the few months he has been part of the Pack. 

“He has come out here with a workman-like attitude everyday and worked and worked and worked,” Nielsen said. “He has improved his technique and fundamentals each day that we have been out here.”

But perhaps the players to watch out for this season is sophomore defensive tackle Monty Nelson. Nelson started four games last season, the only true freshman to play on the defensive line last year. The Plantation, Fla. native had 39 total tackles on the season, nine of which were unassisted. He also recorded eight and a half tackles for loss, placing him fourth among N.C. State players.  

Nielsen said he is proud to see his players step up and buy into the State football philosophy.

“I think as a group we’ve seen a steady increase in fundamentals and techniques of all the players on the line,” Nielsen said.