The NC State football team will look to bounce back this Saturday as it hosts the Marshall Thundering Herd in the team’s home opener at Carter-Finley Stadium.
The Wolfpack (0-1) is looking to improve several aspects of its game that left it with a 35-28 loss against South Carolina in the season opener. On offense, NC State averaged a mere 2.5 yards per rush, converted less than half of its third downs and had costly and momentum-swinging penalties and turnovers. The Pack was unable to establish a pass defense, and it gave up big plays and field position on special teams.
However, there were some positive points from the loss. Redshirt junior quarterback Ryan Finley passed for a career high 415 yards and had two touchdowns despite inconsistent offensive line play and battling through hard hits. Senior all-purpose back Jaylen Samuels racked up 15 catches and a touchdown. Even though the defensive line did not rush the quarterback as well as was hoped, they did allow only 31 rushing yards at 1.5 yards per carry.
The Thundering Herd (1-0) comes to Raleigh with a 31-26 victory against Miami-Ohio last week. Despite having two turnovers and just 267 total yards, Marshall rose victorious, mostly thanks to strong special teams play. Junior running back and kick returner Keion Davis had three returns for 196 yards and two touchdowns, including a 99-yard touchdown return. The Thundering Herd will try to improve on 59 yards rushing and poor pass execution against a stout Wolfpack defensive line.
Even though the defense allowed 429 yards, big plays came in clutch, such as a 72-yard pick-six and a fumble recovery plus seven passes defended and 20 QB hurries. Marshall is definitely capable of big, game-changing plays.
After an underwhelming 3-9 record from last season, Marshall will try to improve with consistent play from junior quarterback Chase Litton. A new look offense will feature only one out of six receivers from a season ago and six redshirt freshmen have been brought in for the offensive line.
The Wolfpack defense has a lot to prove after a lackluster showing last week, and this might be the week to see improved execution. With the Thundering Herd’s inexperienced offensive line, the Wolfpack defensive line will get a chance to show off its power, especially in rushing and sacking the quarterback. The secondary will also look to bounce back.
Look for the offense to continue short passes from Ryan Finley in addition to occasional deep throws to test the susceptible Marshall defense. With this defensive matchup, expect the running game to be established early and often during the game.
The keys to this game may very well be decided by special teams play. Senior kicker Carson Wise and the entire NC State special teams unit can improve their image with a strong showing and consistent play. Turnovers are also a major point of emphasis for both teams. It is very likely that the team with the fewest mistakes and penalties will have the upper hand in this game.
