By BJ Bennett
SouthernPigskin.com

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Already, Ricky Person, Jr. has proven that he can impact a football game a variety of different ways.

Ricky Person, Jr. had quite the performance in NC State’s 45-42 win over Wake Forest. He was in the box score as a passer, a rusher, a receiver and a return specialist. He was responsible for three total touchdowns. He scored the game-winner. He was in the backfield and on the edge. He, recapping a game for the record books, was everywhere, especially when his team needed him most.

A running back by trade, Person carried the football 14 times for 99 yards and two scores. His three yard touchdown late in the fourth quarter proved to be the play of the game. Person caught two passes, returned three kicks and even threw a short touchdown pass, breaking a third quarter tie, to Devin Carter. In a game with 87 total points scored, it was Person, a Wake Forest-native, who made his points count most.

Person is one of just five players this millennium with two rushing scores, a passing touchdown, plus multiple receptions and a kick return in the same game.

Throughout his career, Person, who entered this season averaging over four yards per run and ten yards per catch, has often been at his best on the big stage. He topped 100 yards rushing in his ACC debut against Virginia back in 2018, then rushed for two touchdowns and caught another in NC State’s win over Florida State mere weeks later. Last season, Person scored a late fourth quarter touchdown that gave the Wolfpack an opportunity to tie Georgia Tech with a potential two-point conversion.

Already, Person has proven that he can impact a football game a variety of different ways. Saturday’s effort was one in the mold of former NC State do-it-all superstar Jaylen Samuels, now with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Notably, Person’s production helped the Wolfpack win a wild game with a number of lead changes and big moments. NC State is now 1-0 on the young season and has considerable momentum after an important and dramatic win. Person is one of the talented and versatile playmakers leading the Wolfpack forward. His all-purpose ability gives his offense options. Person is making the most of those opportunities.

NC State is an exciting team to watch and Person, fresh off a milestone showing, is one of the reasons why.