NC State looks to end 6 game skid vs GT | Breakdown, Preview & How to Watch

NC State Wolfpack @ Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
Time: 8:00pm
Location: Atlanta, GA
TV: ACCN
Line: GT -1.5

NC State is looking to end their 6 game losing streak as they head to Atlanta for a matchup with Georgia Tech.

This is a battle of the basement dwellers. NC State comes in at 3-12 in the conference (last place) and Tech sits at just 3-10 (second to last).

GT has lost 4 of their last 5, with their only win during that period coming against Clemson.

The Yellow Jackets are, as usual, going to rely mostly on the play of senior guard (6’5) Michael Devoe. The experienced guard is leading them in points (18.6), assists (3.3) and steals (1.5).

Aside from Devoe, Tech will look to 6’7 senior guard, Jordan Usher. who averages just under 15ppg.

NC State is going to have the advantage on the boards, as GT averages just 9 per game, while NC State is middle of the pack with 12. State also scores more than the Jackets, but isn’t quite as good from long range.

GT is a good matchup for State, since they really don’t have a reliable post presence, something the Pack has struggled with all season long. This will allow them to switch most screens without having to worry about a big slipping down, or posting up on a mismatch.

For the Wolfpack, the keys are clear. They need to get big games from Seabron, Smith and Hellems. How those 3 go, so goes NC State. They’ll need to win the battle of the boards and do their best to turn over the Yellow Jackets, who average almost 13 turnovers per game.

NC State isn’t really playing for any postseason bid at this point, but a strong finish to the season could help them with some confidence going into the ACC Tournament.

While anything can happen, it’s hard to see the Wolfpack showing any drastic changes. They’ve tried just about everything possible. They’ve adjusted lineups, switched defenses, and even moved guys into different positions. Nothing has worked. Without a real threat in the middle and without a true PG, NC State is likely going to live and die by the jumper every time out.