The Good: State pulled away from Liberty in the second half and won 43-21. They did it with some defense and special teams. State had 4 interceptions and recovered 3 fumbles. Liberty's mobile quarterback tossed 3 of those INTs and lost all 3 fumbles, one of which was returned 52 yards for a Wolfpack TD. TJ Graham also had an 82 yard punt return for a TD in the first half.
Curtis Underwood carried 14 times for 114 yards and a TD. James Washington carried 14 times for 67 yards and 2 TDs. State was finally able to wear down Liberty's defensive line in the second half and ripped open big gains on the ground, especially in the 4th quarter.
The Bad: All of this was against Liberty, an FCS divison team. Even though they are the 4 time reigning Big South champions it's still an FSC team. Liberty outgained NC State 406-318. It was Liberty's defense that was more aggressive throughout, dialing up blitzes and getting pressure on Mike Glennon who seemed immobile and slow to release the ball in the pocket, and not feel the pressure. He got drilled from the blind side a couple times, one of which forced a fumble that Liberty returned for a TD.
The Ugly: Mike Glennon was 18-31 for 156 yards with 1 TD and no interceptions in his first career start. He was rushed and harassed by the Liberty pressure and seemed out of sync with his receivers.
State's kicker missed an extra point and had a second one blocked.
State won it but they have Wake Forest next week at Wake. They have alot to improve on or they'll get beat handily.
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