LOHD Quick Overview of NC State

Head Coach: Tom O’Brien (3rd year)
Overall Coaching Record: 86-59
2008: 6-7 (4-4 ACC), Tied for 3rd in Atlantic Div
Last Bowl: 2008 PapaJohns.com Bowl, Lost to Rutgers 23-29
Returning Starters: 7 offense, 7 defense

Offensive Outlook: Most of the NCSU success in 2009 depends on All-ACC QB Russell Wilson and his health. We will not lie....Wilson is good and can win some games for NCSU by himself. But if Wilson gets hurt then NCSU is not so much a threat. This season, Pack fans shouldn’t have to fear the worst if/when Wilson gets hurt, thanks to backup Mike Glennon. While the quarterback position will receive the most attention, NC State will have a strong running back tandem with Toney Baker and Jamelle Eugene. They have a good WR corp but again most of the offense flows through the arm and legs of Wilson due to his creation ability.

Dear Ellis Johnson --- focus on stopping Wilson from running, contain the guy and teach tacklers not to miss. Thanks.

Defensive Outlook: LB Nate Irving suffered a broken leg and a collapsed lung after a car accident in late June. Along with DT Alan-Michael Cash, and DE Willie Young, Irving was supposed to be part of a defensive turnaround in Raleigh. The Wolfpack may be able to overcome his absence, but the program can’t shake the injury curse. N.C. State ranked 96th nationally in pass defense last season. The permanent losses of cornerback Dominique Ellis and safety Jimmaul Simmons, and the temporary loss of linebacker Nate Irving, do not help that cause.

Dear Steve Spurrier --- QB Garcia, this game is up to you and your ability to connect with receivers down the field. Let's not try to be too fancy the 1st game and just move the ball down the field.

Best Case for NCSU in '09: Wilson completes every game and lives up to the All ACC hype that he currently deserves. They will lose a two to three games and win the Atlantic division. Winning in college football is not brain surgery. Strong QB play directly correlates to successful seasons (pay attention Garcia). I say 9-3.

Worst Case for NCSU in '09: Wilson gets hurt early and Glennon turns out to be another interception waiting to happen. O-line falls apart and with it the season...NCSU finishes 5-7.

thoughts....