/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69790687/usa_today_15048965.0.jpg)
The NC State Wolfpack will be the first ACC team to kick off its respective 2021 campaign and will do so when welcoming the USF Bulls to Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, NC, to open the year. The game is set for Thursday, September 2 at 7:30 p.m. ET on the ACC Network.
NC State was one of the few teams from around the country that got to play close to a full schedule during the pandemic-affected 2020 season, finishing with a respectable 8-4 record that ended with a two-point loss to Kentucky in the Gator Bowl. Averaging 30.4 points per game, the Wolfpack held their own even with starting quarterback Devin Leary going down with a fractured fibula midseason. Leary is now back and healthy and prepared to lead a program hoping to break into the upper echelon of the ACC standings.
Meanwhile, USF is looking to “unofficially” begin the Jeff Scott era after a 2020 season that can effectively be tossed out the window. Week-to-week lineup changes due to COVID-19, a revolving door at quarterback, and the usual growing pains of a first-year staff doomed the Bulls to a 1-8 record where their only victory came against The Citadel in the season-opener. With a normal offseason, a host of transfers set to make immediate impacts, and a solidified starting QB in Cade Fortin taking reigns in Raleigh on Thursday, the Bulls are hoping to take a step forward as a program this fall.
Odds from DraftKings Sportsbook
Spread: NC State -18
Total: 60
Moneyline: USF +600, NC State -900
Line Movement
Opening Spread: NC State -17.5
Opening Total: 61
Key Injuries
USF
WR Christian Helms is out 6-8 weeks with a foot injury.
RB K’Wan Powell is Out for the season with a knee injury.
NC State
RB Markese Stepp is Probable with a foot injury.
TE Thomas Fidone II is Out indefinitely with a knee injury.
LB Will Honas is Out for the season with a knee injury.
If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL). Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ/WV/PA/MI), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (NH/CO), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), 1-888-532-3500 (VA) or call/text TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN). 21+ (18+ NH). CO/IL/IN/IA/NH/NJ/PA/TN/VA/WV/MI only. Eligibility restrictions apply. See draftkings.com/sportsbook for full terms and conditions.