Staff Picks: North Carolina State vs. No. 16 Notre Dame
The Irish Illustrated staff offers their predictions for the upcoming game between the Fighting Irish and the Wolfpack of North Carolina State.
Tim Prister, owner and publisher, will share his prediction later today.
TIM O’MALLEY (Senior Editor)
I previously projected Notre Dame to finish 11-1, with this weekend's game being their only loss. Notre Dame's defense has been consistently strong, performing as expected since the start of the season. The offense has also exceeded pre-season expectations, especially in Games 2-4. This momentum continues into Game 6, where both the offense and defense are expected to perform at their best.
The '25 campaign's 0-2 start means the Irish can't afford any letdowns, especially against a capable team like North Carolina State. The only potential loss for Notre Dame is against USC on October 18, which the defense must prevent.
Notre Dame 38, North Carolina State 20
John Brice (Football Scoop)
Notre Dame's recent success and equity earned week after week mean they are close to securing victory. However, they haven't yet earned the right to assume victory.
The Fighting Irish have shown up for games this year, despite facing challenges, especially on defense. The team's performance against college football competitors has boosted their confidence.
North Carolina State's Wolfpack is not the same as a few years ago, and the team's offensive coordinator and key players are no longer a threat. Notre Dame's offense is smoother this week, and while their defense isn't as suffocating as last week, they will still handle NC State.
Notre Dame 41, NC State 10
Drew Mentock (Writer & Digital Media Manager)
North Carolina State's offense has explosive weapons, including quarterback CJ Bailey and running back Hollywood Smothers. However, Notre Dame's defense is likely to keep their talented offense in check.
Since safety Adon Shuler returned from suspension, Notre Dame's defense has been giving up only 2.7 points per quarter. Notre Dame also has an advantage in offensive skill talent with quarterback CJ Carr and the dynamic running back duo of Jeremiyah Love and Jadarian Price.
Notre Dame 34, North Carolina State 14
Eric Thomas (Recruiting Reporter)
The annual Peacock game against NC State usually elicits groans from the fanbase, but this weekend's ACC game might be a blessing in disguise.
Notre Dame is a 23.5-point favorite, with a top-5 offense by points-per-play and an ascending defense that has improved since the Arkansas game. NC State's offense ranks No. 54, while their defense ranks No. 85.
The Wolfpack's defense is susceptible to both the run and pass, making it easier for Notre Dame's high-flying offense to attack.
Key Predictions:
- Over 3.5 predictions for Will Pauling/Slot receivers
- Jeremiyah Love will lead in total yardage, but Jadarian Price will lead in scoring with two touchdowns
- Malachi Fields will catch another touchdown
- Over 2.5 havoc plays from Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa
- CJ Carr will have a turnover, but the Irish will win the turnover battle
- Notre Dame will kick a field goal before half
- Notre Dame 38, NC State 20
Bryan Ault (Recruiting Reporter)
CJ Bailey is a talented quarterback with NFL potential. He's a dual-threat gunslinger with accuracy, decision-making, and timing. NC State's receivers are tall, providing him with multiple targets.
Hollywood Smothers is a dynamic running back who can make defenders miss. The Irish defense will need to play top-notch football.
NC State's defense is weak upfront, and the Irish offense will take advantage. The game will likely be a track meet with both teams scoring early, but Notre Dame will emerge victorious.
Notre Dame 49, NC State 35
Tom the Intern (Emeritus)
While the defense has improved, I'd like to see it against better teams. The Irish offense is expected to find its groove, similar to before the Boise State game. The defense will show its improvements, but it's not as far along as it seems.
NC State's offense can score quickly, and given the fans' dislike of defensive coordinator Chris Ash, the game is expected to be wild.
Notre Dame 42, NC State 21
