FINLEY: "We've got to execute"
NC State quarterback Ben Finley met with the media following the Wolfpack's 25-10 loss to Louisville Saturday night.
Note: Click the video in the player above to watch the press conference.
On getting his first significant playing time since 2020…
It felt great, getting called up this week off scout team. Having the trust of my teammates and being able to go out there and play the game I love. It was really helpful that I had the backing of the guys.
On how much of a factor the weather was…
It was there. It was a cold game but I don’t think it affected any of our pass concepts or our play calling. We just tried to do what we wanted to do against them. They’re a great defense. I think we fought hard and we fought until the end.
On the fourth down plays in the fourth quarter…
That 4th-and-1 was huge and we didn’t get that one. We’ve got to execute, especially on third down. I think we were 7 for 19 or something like that, so we’ve got to get better in that category for sure. Those would be huge to get back.
On what this season has been like for him…
It’s been different. Started off on scout team, so the last nine weeks have been over helping the defense. It was kind of nice building those relationships with those guys. I was never really around the offense, so this is kind of my first week back with the O. Having the defensive players and offensive players having my back, it really helps. But we would have loved to come away with a win.
On if his brother Ryan has offered any help or advice…
Yeah, we talk all the time. He’s really helpful, even though he was never really in this situation when he was at State. He’s been helpful with what to do and what not to do. Helping mostly with my mindset, just staying positive this whole season. It’s gonna really help now coming off a loss and trying to learn from these mistakes.
On what he can take away from this game to get ready for the next…
I think it was nice getting the most snaps I’ve ever gotten in a game, and kind of getting that comfort. Having those reps will definitely help me going into UNC and help me prepare. I think we’ve just got to get it done in the film room and figure out what they’re gonna do and what we can do best. That’s gonna be a huge game for us. You always want to win that one.