Smith Takes New Starting Role in Stride
When a player is unable to perform on the field, it’s next man up. Sophomore cornerback Teshaun Smith became N.C. State’s next man up when senior cornerback Nick McCloud was absent on the sideline for the Wolfpack’s game against Western Carolina.
This has been nothing new for Smith, who had started twice the season before, and the Fort Lauderdale, Fla. product didn’t let that role impact his play.
“I found out I was starting during the week,” Smith said. “I was getting more reps with the ones during practice. I was treating practice like I was the starter.”
That confidence paid off when Smith, who has now played 56 snaps on the season, stepped onto the field across from junior cornerback Chris Ingram for his first start since the Nov. 3, 2018 game against Florida State. Smith knew it was business as usual.
“When my number was called, nothing changed,” Smith said. “When I go out there, I don’t have any nerves or any jitters. I’m there to play football. I just come prepared so I don’t give the coaches any reason to doubt."
McCloud’s absense illuminates a grander scope of the nature of the game. Even as a sophomore, Smith knows the volatile nature of college football. Being able to jump in at a moment’s notice is a trait that the coaching staff not only admires about Smith but is instilling into the rest of the team – especially in the secondary.
“They’ve been preparing all the young guys since summer,” Smith said. “They’re always on our back because we know we’re going to need everybody in the secondary. Your number could be called at any moment. Our young guys need to be prepared because you never know what’s going to happen. You never know when your last down is.”
Smith’s first collegiate start came in Syracuse’s Dome, and though that atmosphere can be rattling, Smith took it in stride as has been his approach since arriving on campus. With the Pack on the road at West Virginia this weekend, Smith imagines this mindset will resonate with the rest of the team.
“I’m expecting a big crowd in a really hostile environment,” Smith said. “But we’re just going to play Wolfpack football. We’ll be prepared.”