David Pollack Predicts NC State‘s “cliff Dive” in 2025 Season
Former ESPN analyst David Pollack has issued a stark warning for NC State’s upcoming 2025 football season, predicting a significant downturn for the Wolfpack. despite a history of four consecutive winning seasons prior to a disappointing 2024 campaign, Pollack believes the team is “headed in the wrong direction” adn faces a high probability of “fall[ing] off a cliff.”
The Wolfpack concluded the 2024 season with a 6-7 record, a notable decline from their previous eight- and nine-win seasons. Hopes were high entering 2024, but the team struggled across the board, especially on offense. ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) echoes pollack’s pessimism, projecting a 6-6 finish for NC State in 2025 and assigning the team a mere 1.3% chance of winning the ACC. The FPI currently ranks NC State 11th in the conference.
While NC State is set to return over half of its overall production, including nearly 75% on offense, these statistics may not fully reflect the team’s on-field performance. Last season, the Wolfpack ranked 76th in total offense, struggling to establish a consistent ground or aerial attack.
Key offensive players returning include quarterback CJ Bailey, who threw for 2,413 yards and 17 touchdowns, along with tight end Justin Joly, tackle Jacarrius Peak, running back Hollywood Smothers, and defensive tackle Brandon Cleveland. However, the defense, a traditional strength for the team, returns only 53% of its production, raising concerns about a potential step back.
NC State will open its 2025 season at home against East Carolina on August 28.
