The Virginia Cavaliers will travel to Raleigh, NC, for a Week 2 regular-season contest against the North Carolina State Wolfpack. The game is set to take place at Carter-Finley Stadium on September 6, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 12:00 PM. Fans can catch the game live on ESPN2.
Both teams enter the game with a 1-0 record after securing victories in their respective season openers. Virginia dominated Coastal Carolina 48-7 at home, showcasing a balanced attack with 290 passing yards and 177 rushing yards. Meanwhile, NC State held off East Carolina 24-17, leveraging their passing game with 318 yards to secure the win.
According to the consensus odds, NC State is slightly favored, with a moneyline of -135 compared to Virginia’s +113. The spread sits at 2.5 points in favor of NC State, and the total points line is set at 54.5. Both teams are part of the Atlantic Coast Conference, setting the stage for an intriguing conference battle early in the season.
North Carolina State vs Virginia At a Glance
- Game Location: Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, NC
- Game Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 12:00 PM
- Broadcast: Available on ESPN2
- Virginia Cavaliers Record: 1-0 this season
- North Carolina State Wolfpack Record: 1-0 this season
- Odds Overview: North Carolina State favored with a -135 moneyline
The North Carolina State Wolfpack: A Detailed Look at the Upcoming Game
Offensive Performance
North Carolina State’s offensive lineup appears to be in solid form this season. Currently, they rank 24th in passing yards, with a notable 318 yards achieved in their last game. The team has been effective in securing first downs, sitting at 20th in the rankings, with an average of 21 first downs per game.
Rushing yards remain a point of focus, as they rank 87th with 110 yards. Despite this, the team’s ability to generate points, ranked 32nd, indicates a balanced offensive strategy that could be key in upcoming games.
Defensive Strength
The Wolfpack’s defense is proving to be a significant asset. With only 17 points allowed per game, they rank 13th, showcasing a robust defensive lineup. Their ability to pressure the quarterback is evident, with one sack in their recent performance, placing them 7th overall.
Turnover creation, however, remains an area for improvement. North Carolina State ranks 1st for interceptions, yet they recorded none in their last outing, and they are 4th in fumbles recovered, also with none in the most recent game.
Player Highlights
Quarterback CJ Bailey stands out with a stellar performance, amassing 318 passing yards in the recent game, ranking 18th in the league. He also contributed a passing touchdown, showcasing his ability to lead the offensive charge.
Running back Hollywood Smothers leads the rushing attack with 76 yards, indicating potential for more ground gains. Wesley Grimes, at wide receiver, caught attention with 121 receiving yards and a touchdown, making him a key target in the air attack.
Recent Game Insights
In their recent 24-17 victory over East Carolina Pirates, North Carolina State demonstrated their offensive versatility. They achieved 21 first downs, compared to the Pirates’ 18, indicating their ability to control the pace of the game.
Although they allowed 383 passing yards, their defensive front limited the Pirates to just 53 rushing yards. This highlights their capacity to adapt and adjust defensively as needed.
Upcoming Challenges
The Wolfpack will next face the Virginia Cavaliers at home, a venue where they have been successful. This game could test their defensive adaptability further, especially against Virginia’s varied offensive strategies.
Following the Cavaliers, North Carolina State will travel to face Wake Forest and Notre Dame. These games will be crucial in determining their standing as the season progresses.
Team Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U Last 3: 0-1 (0.0%)
Virginia Cavaliers Set to Conquer: A Glimpse into the Upcoming Game
Offensive Breakdown
The Virginia Cavaliers are gearing up for another game, carrying forward a strong offensive performance from their recent win. In their opening game, they scored 48 points, ranking them 16th in the nation for points scored. Their passing game amassed 290 yards, placing them 32nd, while their rushing attack covered 177 yards, ranking them 55th.
Their ability to move the chains was evident with 23 first downs, placing them 18th in the national rankings. This offensive consistency will be crucial as they aim to maintain their momentum against upcoming opponents. Chandler Morris led the charge with 264 passing yards, earning a top rank among quarterbacks in the league.
Defensive Strengths
Defensively, the Cavaliers have shown remarkable prowess, allowing only 7 points in their recent outing. They rank 4th in points against, showcasing their ability to keep opponents at bay. With one sack, one interception, and two fumbles recovered, their defense is proving to be a formidable force.
Ranked 2nd for interceptions and fumbles recovered, their defense capitalizes on turnovers, creating opportunities for their offense. This defensive reliability will be pivotal in sustaining their winning streak as they face tougher competition.
Key Players
J’Mari Taylor emerged as a significant contributor in the running game, scoring two rushing touchdowns and adding 32 rushing yards. His performance places him among the top running backs in the league. Cam Ross, a standout wide receiver, made an impact with seven receptions totaling 124 yards and a touchdown.
On the defensive front, Chandler Morris’s readiness to play despite a shoulder injury will be vital. The availability of key players like Morris could influence the outcome of future games significantly. Their collective efforts will be instrumental as the Cavaliers navigate their challenging schedule.
Injury Report
The Cavaliers are currently managing several injuries, which could affect their lineup. Monroe Mills and Ja’Maric Morris are out for the season, impacting their depth in crucial positions. Chandler Morris, probable for the next game, is expected to play through a shoulder issue, which is a positive sign for their offensive plans.
Jam Jackson and Suderian Harrison are listed as questionable, and their availability will be closely monitored. The coaching staff will need to adapt their strategy accordingly, ensuring the team remains competitive despite these setbacks.
Betting Trends
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
North Carolina State vs Virginia Prediction: North Carolina State -2.5
North Carolina State enters this game with a solid home victory already under their belt, showing proficiency both on offense and defense. They scored 24 points in their first game, ranking 32nd in points for, while limiting their opponent to 17 points. This defensive strength can be crucial in managing Virginia’s potent offense, which scored 48 points in their opening game.
Virginia’s offensive firepower is notable, but North Carolina State’s defense has proven effective, ranking 13th in points against. Playing in front of a home crowd at Carter-Finley Stadium provides an additional edge for North Carolina State. Their ability to contain and counter Virginia’s offensive threats will be key in covering the spread.
Given the spread of -2.5 for North Carolina State, their combination of home advantage and defensive capabilities makes them the preferred pick. North Carolina State’s track record as a home favorite further bolsters confidence in their ability to cover the spread.
With the odds and home dynamics considered, a projected score of North Carolina State 28, Virginia 24 supports this pick. The defense should mitigate Virginia’s offensive onslaught just enough to secure a win and cover the spread.
- North Carolina State vs Virginia Prediction: North Carolina State -2.5
- North Carolina State vs Virginia Score: North Carolina State 28 – Virginia 24
