Five areas NC State football must show growth moving forward
- NC State's opener exposed broad concerns after Virginia outgained the Wolfpack 413-168, held the ball for more than 38 minutes, and won 34-8.
- CJ Bailey's road issues carried into 2026 as he went 12-of-23 for 84 yards with an interception and a red-zone fumble while holding RPO reads too long.
- NC State's receiver room failed to create consistent separation, leaving Miami transfer Jojo Trader as an important early answer because of his prior chemistry with Bailey.
- The run game produced only 76 yards at 3.2 per carry, with Duke Scott limited to 20 yards on seven carries and the rebuilt offensive line failing to create zone-run push.
- NC State's defensive front managed one sack and was gashed for 258 rushing yards while Virginia quarterback Beau Pribula stayed comfortable as a runner and passer.
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