NC State’s Running Backs Show Signs of Being Explosive in Season Opener

Explosive is the only way to describe NC State’s running attack against Wake Forest in Week 1.

The Wolfpack rushed for 270 yards, which was the most rushing yards against an ACC opponent since rushing for 292 yards against UNC in 2017.

Credit the talented running back room. Credit Tim Beck’s new offensive scheme. Credit the beastly offensive line.

The Wolfpack’s offensive play calling has been more balanced under Doeren in the past, Beck leaned into the strength of the Pack in 2020, rushing the ball 49 times, compared to 24 pass attempts.

In my opinion, what was more impressive than the total rushing yards, was the amount of explosive plays.

In 2019, NC State’s running backs had a TOTAL of 10 runs of 20 yards or more.

In Week 1 against Wake Forest, the Pack Backs had SEVEN.

Ricky Person – 3 (33, 30, 21)
Zonovan Knight – 2 (30, 20)
Jordan Houston – 2 (21, 21)

The fact that NC State has a running back room that can explode for big gains like this projects for more games with high point and rushing yard totals.

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