By BJ Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com

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NC State now has the momentum of one of the most meaningful wins in program history.

North Carolina State, after a statement 27-21 overtime triumph over Clemson, is the early favorite in the ACC Atlantic Division.

In a win that is a season-changer for the Wolfpack and shakes up college football, they showed a special poise and resiliency along the way. After a missed potential game-winning field goal with mere seconds remaining, NC State responded by rallying into extra play with a 22-yard touchdown strike from quarterback Devin Leary to receiver Devin Carter on the second snap in overtime. Four plays later, the Tigers had gained just five yards. Seconds after that, the fans were rushing the field.

In a dramatic contest throughout, the Wolfpack ultimately gave the Tigers their first loss to a traditional ACC team since 2017. Clemson entered Saturday having won 41 of 45 games overall. Simply put, NC State was the better team on Saturday. The Wolfpack outgained the Tigers by almost 175 yards and held Clemson to just 184 in regulation, nearly the same total that Georgia limited the Tigers to in week one. A dominant defense and the play Leary was the difference in a signature victory for NC State.

A lot of ACC teams have come to beating Clemson. The Wolfpack just did. They overcame eleven penalties for 105 yards and three missed field goals to do so. NC State won by never giving in.

Even with an earlier disappointment at Mississippi State, the Wolfpack, who entered the year with high expectations after winning four straight to end last regular season, is now a national name once again. Though upcoming games against Boston College and Wake Forest, both 4-0, are both on the road, the win over Clemson moves NC State to the front of the line in the chase towards Charlotte. The Wolfpack looked the part against the team that has long been the standard.

NC State has never played in an ACC Championship Game; Saturday’s performance was a big step in that direction.

Regardless of Clemson’s slow start, a win over the Tigers is as big as it gets. Clemson entered the weekend as the only defense in the nation that had not yet allowed a touchdown; the Wolfpack scored more points than the Tigers’ other three opponents combined. As if playing with Clemson through four quarters wasn’t enough, the Wolfpack wasted no time in overtime.

This is a team that showed a championship resolve.

NC State now has the momentum of one of the most meaningful wins in program history. The Wolfpack found a way and found their way. That direction is forward.