NC State enters Year 14 under Dave Doeren knowing it has a strength in returning QB CJ Bailey

The North Carolina State football team enters its 14th season under head coach Dave Doeren, a year after a strong showing in the previous year. A key factor in their success is the return of quarterback CJ Bailey, who has seen his stats improve significantly since his sophomore year. Bailey led the team in passing yards (3,105) and touchdowns (25) in the 2024 season, a marked increase from his 2,413 yards and 17 TDs thrown in 2024. Bailey's leadership and accuracy have made him an integral part of the team's success.

Additionally, three starters return on defense, including safety Asaad Brown Jr., who is leading in tackles. The offense boasts four returning starters, including running back Duke Scott, who had a breakout season last year with 595 yards and 11 touchdowns. The Wolfpack are projected to finish seventh in the ACC, with all their upcoming opponents ranked higher than them in the preseason rankings.