NC State Preview Football

North Carolina State coach Dave Doeren watches during NCAA college football practice in Raleigh, N.C., Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2015. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)

2016 record: 7-6, 3-5 ACC

Coach: Dave Doeren (fifth year)

Sked or alive? The ACC slate is a bear. It starts with a visit to Florida State on Sept. 23. Eleven days later, NC State hosts Louisville. Then comes a trip to Pitt and a home game vs. Clemson – with a road game against Notre Dame in between.

Why they’re here: The Wolfpack lost six games last year, but four came by seven or fewer points, including heartbreakers against FSU and Clemson. QB Ryan Finley returns after a promising debut season, and NC State will be strong along both lines. Strong enough to push the ACC’s big boys? Maybe.


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