No. 18 Miami hosts NC State on Saturday in a matchup that features two teams trying to establish consistency.
The Hurricanes (7-2, 4-1) remained in the College Football Playoff hunt after a steady 38-10 win over Syracuse, while the Wolfpack (5-4, 3-3) arrive with renewed confidence following an upset of then-No. 8 Georgia Tech and a timely bye week.
The midseason turnaround has been dramatic for NC State, which had lost four of five before toppling the Yellow Jackets. Quarterback CJ Bailey has led the resurgence, throwing for 2,411 yards and 19 touchdowns with a 70.7% completion rate. The Wolfpack offense ranks 27th nationally at 438.6 yards per game, but their defense will need to hold up against one of the ACC’s most efficient units. NC State ranks 122nd in total defense and is allowing opponents to convert 44.7% of third downs.
Miami is led by quarterback Carson Beck, who has thrown for 2,194 yards and 15 touchdowns. The Hurricanes are top-10 nationally in scoring defense (15.0 ppg) and rushing defense (88.3 ypg), providing a steady foundation at home. Miami also boasts a plus-seven turnover margin, an area where NC State has struggled at minus-four.
Both teams have been strong in the red zone. NC State ranks 10th nationally, and Miami is 20th, suggesting finishing drives could decide the outcome.
With road games against Virginia Tech and No. 22 Pitt on the horizon, Miami understands the importance of finishing out right at Hard Rock Stadium. NC State, having already stunned Georgia Tech and Virginia, will try for one more surprise against a ranked opponent.
Kickoff on Saturday set for 3:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.
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