Previewing NC State’s Opponent: Ball State

NC State will host Ball State tonight at 7pm under the lights tonight, marking the first time the Wolfpack and Cardinals have ever played each other in football.

It might be the first time that NC State has played Ball State, but it’s not the 1st time that Dave Doeren has played the Cardinals. While at Northern Illinois, Doeren was 2-0 against Ball State.

Experienced Unit

Ball State is one of the most experienced teams in the nation, returning 17 starters from 2018 (8 offense & 9 defense), which is tied for the 2nd most nationally.

Against the ACC

Back in 2013, Ball State beat Virginia 48-27, marking the only time they have beat an ACC opponent. The Cardinals are 1-7 all-time against the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Cardinals’ Flying High

The Cardinals’ air attack has been prolific through three games with Redshirt Junior Drew Plitt chucking the ball. Pitt has already thrown for over 1,000 yards through the first three games (1,040). Plitt has completed 70.6% of his passes and thrown 11 touchdowns (3 interceptions). He enters the game ranked 5th nationally in passing yards per game (346.7).

Plitt has a buffet of options to throw to. Redshirt Senior Riley Miller is the team leader in receiving yards (236), accompanied by 14 receptions and 2 touchdowns. Miller earned 2nd Team All-MAC last season. Redshirt Senior Antwan Davis leads the team with 3 touchdown receptions, and also has over 200+ yards receiving along with Miller (222). For perspective, Emeka Emezie leads NC State with 205 receiving yards, and Tabari Hines is next with 129 yards.

Junior Justin Hall leads Ball State with 16 receptions (162 yards), and earned All-MAC Third Team honors last year.

The Cardinals have 4 touchdown passes of 35+ yards in 2019. Last year they only had two such touchdowns all year.

They Will Steal the Ball from You

NC State’s offense has yet to turn the ball over in 2019. In comparison, Ball State’s defense has created 2 turnovers in each of their first three games, ranking 20th nationally. Their 4 interceptions are tied for 9th nationally. The Cardinals will look to be the first team to intercept Wolfpack Quarterback Matt McKay.

Defensive Leaders

Senior Inside Linebacker Jacob White leads the team in tackles in 2019 (29), and is the active career leader on the roster. White had a gaudy 17 tackles last week against Florida Atlantic.

Redshirt Junior James Jennette leads the team with 4 tackles for loss and 2 sacks. He is a first year starter, but led the team with 6 tackles for loss off the bench last year.

Comparing the 2 Teams