Raleigh, August 29, 2025
News Summary
The N.C. State Wolfpack overcame a 17-0 deficit to defeat the East Carolina Pirates 24-17 at Carter-Finley Stadium. Quarterback CJ Bailey led the charge with 318 passing yards and two touchdowns, while Wesley Grimes contributed 121 receiving yards. Despite a strong start from ECU, including Katin Houser’s impressive 366 yards, they struggled with penalties and missed opportunities. The Wolfpack’s defense was pivotal in securing the win as they limited ECU’s rushing game and made key stops.
Raleigh – The N.C. State Wolfpack kicked off their 2025 football season with a thrilling 24-17 victory over the East Carolina Pirates on August 29 at Carter-Finley Stadium. The game, which aired nationally on the ACC Network, showcased the resilience of the Wolfpack as they overcame a 17-0 deficit to secure the win.
N.C. State’s victory was fueled by quarterback CJ Bailey, who displayed an impressive performance with 318 yards passing and two total touchdowns – one through the air and one rushing. Completing 24 of his 34 passes, Bailey proved to be a key player in N.C. State’s comeback. Wesley Grimes stepped up as well, recording a career-high 121 receiving yards on four catches, highlighted by a 48-yard touchdown reception that was pivotal in shifting the momentum of the game.
Despite the early struggles of the N.C. State offense, particularly in the first quarter where they failed to score, they managed to turn the game around in the second quarter with three unanswered touchdowns. Hollywood Smothers contributed one of those touchdowns by rushing into the end zone.
On the other side, East Carolina’s offense started strong but waned as the game progressed. Quarterback Katin Houser threw for 366 yards, including a standout 79-yard bomb to Jayvontay Conner for a touchdown. However, ECU faced significant challenges, including four consecutive three-and-outs early in the game and a total of ten penalties that restricted their offensive effectiveness.
Among the penalties were two critical third-down penalties that halted potential drives. As the game reached its closing moments, N.C. State’s defense was critical in maintaining their lead. They made a game-saving stop on a crucial fourth-and-1 play in their own territory with just 37 seconds remaining.
N.C. State excelled defensively throughout the game, limiting East Carolina to only 30 rushing yards on 29 carries—a stark contrast to previous matchups, especially the Military Bowl where they were defeated 26-21. The Wolfpack’s defense also showcased their strength with three fourth-down stops during the contest, making it difficult for ECU to capitalize on opportunities.
The game was marked by missed opportunities for both teams, including missed field goal attempts from N.C. State’s Nick Koniecznski. The close victory establishes momentum for N.C. State as they look forward to their next game against Virginia on September 6, 2025. Meanwhile, ECU prepares to face Campbell on the same day.
Game Summary
- Final Score: N.C. State 24, East Carolina 17
- Venue: Carter-Finley Stadium, Raleigh
- Date: August 29, 2025
- Top Performers:
- CJ Bailey (N.C. State) – 318 yards passing, 1 TD, 1 rushing TD
- Wesley Grimes (N.C. State) – 121 receiving yards, 1 TD
- Katin Houser (ECU) – 366 yards passing, 1 TD
- Next Games:
- N.C. State vs. Virginia – September 6, 2025
- ECU vs. Campbell – September 6, 2025
Background
This game served as a rematch from the previous Military Bowl, where East Carolina had previously bested N.C. State. The Wolfpack’s successful season opener revitalizes their spirits following that late-season defeat, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.
Key Features of the Game
| Aspect | N.C. State Wolfpack | East Carolina Pirates |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 24 | 17 |
| Passing Yards | 318 (CJ Bailey) | 366 (Katin Houser) |
| Rushing Yards | 30 | Rushed Yards: N/A |
| Key Players | CJ Bailey, Wesley Grimes | Katin Houser, Jayvontay Conner |
| Total Penalties | N/A | 10 |
| Next Game | September 6, 2025 vs. Virginia | September 6, 2025 vs. Campbell |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Chris Buddo Appointed New Provost at ECU
Buncombe County, North Carolina Grapples with Challenges in School Reopening Plans Post-Hurricane Helene
Additional Resources
- Fayetteville Observer
- ESPN
- 247Sports
- GoPack
- USA Today Sportsbook Wire
- Wikipedia: N.C. State Wolfpack Football
- Google Search: N.C. State football
- Google Scholar: N.C. State
- Encyclopedia Britannica: North Carolina State University
- Google News: N.C. State football
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