Several members of the Inside Pack Sports staff predict the winner of the NC State-South Florida matchup.
James Henderson (IPS Publisher)
State 42, South Florida 14
It’s tough because I do think USF will be much-improved, but NC State is more talented, more experienced, and playing at home.
I expect the Pack to roll.
Steve Williams (IPS Football Recruiting Analyst)
State 35, South Florida 14
I'm not completely sure what to expect from South Florida, but in the end, I don't think it really matters. I believe the strength of NC State – at least early on – is going to be their defense, and I think they're going to be tough to move the ball on. The Pack will run the ball effectively and try to find some balance in the passing game. I see the Wolfpack winning convincingly.
Bryant Carson (IPS Football Analyst)
State 38, South Florida 21
I believe by the mid-point of the first or early in the second NC State will take control as the superior team. I ultimately think that leads to the Pack letting up a bit late in the game and maybe using the second and third teams which allows USF to get a late score or two.
Phillip Danford (IPS Football Analyst)
State 37, South Florida 20
Coming into a season with big expectations, I’d expect NC State to be aggressive coming out of the gate. They’re the better team and will build a healthy lead by the third quarter. Although a late score by USF will make the score appear closer than it was, NC State will be riding high into a big week two matchup.
Ethan Barry (IPS Writer)
State 38, South Florida 17
I think the Pack starts slow early shaking off some rust and potentially being overexcited in front of the crowd. USF hangs around into the third quarter before NC State takes over in the second half and shows why the preseason hype was warranted, and then pulls away easily.
Andrew Schnittker (IPS Writer)
State 42, South Florida 17
The Wolfpack rides some explosive plays from Leary and the passing game early to a big lead and then finishes it out with the ground game in the second half. The defense might give up a big play or two in the opener but shouldn't have much trouble with Cade Fortin and company. Pack rolls to an impressive first win.
Jake McSwain (IPS Writer)
State 45, South Florida 10
To me this is a game NC State should and will win. There is an air of confidence and swagger that is palpable.
USF has some talent but are still trying to find a culture and identity. Their DLine is a little soft, and that sets up for State to establish the run early and hit some shock plays when USF tries to adjust.
This just feels like a game that is going to be over by halftime.
BP Cox (IPS Photographer)
State 45, South Florida 17
Dave Doeren enters his ninth year at the helm with the Wolfpack, and not to shortchange the previous players that have played for him during his tenure, this is by far Doeren's most talented team from top to bottom.
Watch for the Wolfpack offense to lean heavily on the run game early and often as they allow QB Devin Leary to pace himself and look to pick up where he left off before getting injured in 2020.
The Wolfpack defense will be led by arguably the best linebacking corps in the ACC in Isaiah Moore, Payton Wilson, and Drake Thomas. The trio will cause havoc early and often. Look for the defense to score in the contest on a pick six.
Doeren and the Pack beat the Bulls in front of a wild, I mean REALLY loud, Carter-Finley Stadium.
