NC STATE WOLFPACK O:5 D:5

The Wolfpack entered 2005 very optimistic as it returned a bunch of experience, and had a very talented defense. Their first game of the season against VTECH was a precursor of what was to come down the road. They lost the game 20-16 but doubled the Hokies in yardage gained, and killed themselves with a number of poor penalties and turnovers. This same old song and dance killed them through their first six games, but then the light turned on and they rattled off five wins in six tries to become bowl eligible. This year’s squad loses a ton of talent to the NFL on the defensive side of the ball, and only returns 5 starters. However, HC Chuck Amato has built depth over the years and 15 players return with at least one start under their belt. The front seven will slip a bit, but the secondary looks to be in great shape and boasts excellent speed. This unit won’t be nearly as dominant as the last few year’s, but will still be a decent defense. Offensively, the Wolfpack will once again look to its ground game as both RB’s Andre Brown and Toney Baker combined for over 1200+ yards a season ago. QB Marcus Stone went 5-1 as the Wolfpack’s field general last season, and will be looked upon to avoid mistakes and provide just enough of a passing threat to prevent opponents from stacking the box to defend the run. The special teams are in great shape with Mr. Everything John Deraney who kicks and punts, and WR Darrell Blackman is an All ACC kick returner. The schedule is much nicer to NCST this year, and they get seven games in Raleigh. Underachieving teams usually bounce back the next year when they’re not expected to, so look for the Wolfpack to lace up their bowling shoes once again in ’06.