The Big Game: North Carolina State vs. No. 16 Notre Dame
As we gear up for Saturday’s matchup between the Fighting Irish and the North Carolina State Wolfpack, our team at Irish Illustrated shares their forecasts for what promises to be an exciting game. Stay tuned for Owner and Publisher Tim Prister’s insights, which will be shared later today.
TIM O’MALLEY (Senior Editor)
Let’s take a moment to recall that back in August, I forecasted a record of 11-1 for Notre Dame, citing this weekend as the occasion for their sole loss.
Heading into this game, Notre Dame is showcasing a formidable defense that has consistently performed at a level many anticipated prior to the start of the season. On the offensive end, they have truly surpassed the expectations laid out during the pre-season, especially during Games 2, 3, and 4. This leads us to Game #6, where one can conclude with reasonable confidence:
Saturday will mark a day where both the offense and defense uphold the standards we expect from them. While there's always a risk of a trap game—especially before a rivalry matchup against USC—it’s crucial to note that Notre Dame’s previous struggles at the outset of the 2025 season have stripped them of the luxury to underestimate any opponent. They simply cannot afford to experience a lapse in focus, particularly against a capable team like North Carolina State. No letdowns are expected from the Irish in this matchup.
As for the only potential hurdle for Marcus Freeman’s rising squad, the upcoming game against the Trojans on October 18 certainly looms large, emphasizing the necessity for the Irish defense to be on high alert in that contest.
In the meantime, I predict Notre Dame will dominate this game with a score of 38 to 20 against North Carolina State.
JOHN BRICE (Football Scoop)
While the Fighting Irish have certainly been gaining momentum week after week, they still haven’t completely earned the right to approach this game with an air of confidence. However, they are undeniably close.
It's not that this year’s Notre Dame team has failed to show up for games; there have been moments where they’ve struggled or fallen short, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Yet, as they take care of business on their home turf and observe rivals around the nation handling their own affairs, they find a newfound clarity in this season.
There's no reason this upward trend won’t continue against NC State. It’s worth noting that this year's Wolfpack squad doesn't resemble the annoying opponents from past seasons, nor do they possess the offensive prowess of Des Kitchings or the disruptiveness of past stars like Bradley Chubb.
This week, Notre Dame seems to be running a more efficient offensive operation. While they may not exhibit the same level of defensive intensity they displayed in their recent game against Boise State, they are prepared to manage the challenge presented by NC State.
I foresee a strong outing with a final score of Notre Dame 41, NC State 10.
DREW MENTOCK (Writer & Digital Media Manager)
North Carolina State enters the game armed with a variety of explosive talents, particularly highlighting their 6-foot-6 dual-threat quarterback, CJ Bailey, who ranks fourth in the nation with an impressive completion rate of 74.6%. Complementing him is running back Hollywood Smothers, who leads the nation in all-purpose yards with a staggering 817.
So, can Notre Dame contain such a dynamic offense? Yes, the odds are in their favor.
Since the return of safety and team captain Adon Shuler, who was suspended earlier, the Fighting Irish defense has allowed only 2.7 points per quarter. Moreover, Notre Dame boasts an edge in offensive talent, with quarterback CJ Carr ranked among the top 10 nationally in quarterback rating (QBR), alongside a compelling running back duo in Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price. This trio is likely to thrive against a Wolfpack defense that permits 5.64 yards per play, placing them at a concerning 85th out of 136 FBS teams, just ahead of Boise State.
I predict a score of Notre Dame 34, NC State 14.
ERIC THOMAS (Recruiting Reporter)
A quick reminder: this weekend’s face-off with NC State marks the traditional Peacock game, which typically garners a groan from fans. However, with another ACC team visiting South Bend, this matchup might turn out to be a pleasant surprise.
Currently, Notre Dame stands as a 23.5-point favorite against the Wolfpack, boasting a Top 5 offense in points per play (.639) and a defense that has climbed from the depths of the Top 100 to the cusp of the Top 60 since the start of the season. When we cross-reference, NC State's offense holds the 54th position nationally with a points per play average of .416, while their defense slots down at 85th with an average of .411.
The Wolfpack may rank among the top 10 for completion percentage at 72.84%. Thus, the ability to apply pressure and make them rush their throws will be essential to disrupt their rhythm. Furthermore, NC State’s defense has shown vulnerability against both the run—including an average of 4.9 yards per carry, placing them 104th nationally—and the pass, conceding 7.2 yards per attempt, ranking 67th. This undesired exposure opens up numerous avenues for Notre Dame’s explosive offense to exploit.
Here are some key predictions for the game:
— Over 3.5 receptions for Will Pauling and the Slot receivers
— Jeremiyah Love will compile the most total yardage, while Jadarian Price will lead in scoring with two touchdowns
— Malachi Fields is anticipated to grab another touchdown
— Expect over 2.5 havoc plays—such as sacks, tackles for loss, or forced turnovers—from Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa
— CJ Carr may throw an interception, but overall, the Irish will still win the turnover battle
— Notre Dame is likely to score a field goal before halftime, showcasing a well-executed two-minute drill.
Final prediction: Notre Dame 38, NC State 20.
BRYAN AULT (Recruiting Reporter)
CJ Bailey displays significant promise as a quarterback with genuine NFL prospects. He is potentially the most formidable quarterback Notre Dame has faced so far this season. As a true dual-threat player, he not only possesses a strong arm for deep throws but also maintains the agility to make plays with his legs. His accuracy, judgment, and timing are commendable, especially for a sophomore.
Given that NC State fields three receivers—Wesley Grimes, Keenan Jackson, and Noah Rogers—each exceeding 6-foot-2, Bailey has an ample selection of targets at his disposal. Therefore, the Irish secondary needs to bring their A-game this Saturday.
Hollywood Smothers, as a capable running back, exhibits the ability to sidestep defenders in open space. He combines sharp vision with decisiveness, allowing him to advance swiftly. Additionally, he contributes well in the passing game.
Looking at NC State's defensive front, the group appears to be somewhat vulnerable. Film analysis of their game against Virginia Tech highlights their struggles, particularly as the Hokies’ offensive line managed to protect their quarterback effectively. The linebackers frequently lose their containment and miss critical tackles, a pattern that extends to their safeties and defensive backs. Therefore, I anticipate that a consistent emphasis on running plays with Jadarian Price and Jeremiyah Love will lead to significant success.
In summary, I expect both teams to start explosively; however, Notre Dame will come out victorious in this high-scoring affair.
Final score: Notre Dame 49, NC State 35.
TOM THE INTERN (Emeritus)
I’m not entirely convinced about the defensive advancements I’ve seen. While the Irish defense has shown improvements, I remain skeptical until they face teams that aren’t in turmoil—a coaching change, for example, or teams from lower tiers of competition. I expect this game to mirror the dynamics of the Purdue matchup more closely than the Arkansas game.
CJ Bailey will certainly make significant plays, both through the air and on the ground, capable of executing deep passes with precision. Hollywood Smothers has consistently ripped off large gains against three out of the four Power 5 teams NC State has faced, making him a considerable threat.
While I believe the Irish defense will put forth its best effort and display growth, I question whether it’s truly as advanced as the last two weeks suggest. In contrast, I envision the Irish offense will recapture the rhythm it had going into the game against Boise State.
To put it simply, if Duke could rack up 45 points, Notre Dame certainly has the potential to match that; however, I don’t anticipate them needing to. The Irish defense performed admirably against Boise State, but what’s on the horizon for South Bend isn’t closely comparable to Boise State.
NC State has proven its ability to score points swiftly. Given the historical tension with their defensive coordinator Chris Ash, I expect the game thread in The Four Horsemen Lounge to be electric.
Final prediction: Notre Dame 42, NC State 21.
