Where Did NC State Finish In Preseason Poll? North Carolina State Wolfpack fans might be feeling a little deflated, as preseason media polls have tabbed Dave Doeren's squad to finish 10th in the upcoming 2025 Atlantic Coast Conference football season. A panel of 183 media voters made these selections, highlighting a lack of immediate confidence surrounding the Wolfpack's potential. While this ranking might seem underwhelming, it’s crucial to analyze the context and potential implications for NC State’s 2025 campaign. The full ACC predicted standings reveal a competitive landscape, with Clemson leading the pack at 167 points, followed closely by Miami at 267 points and SMU at 261 points. Georgia Tech and Louisville round out the top five, showcasing the expected strength of the conference. The NC State Wolfpack secured 1505 points, placing them squarely in 10th position. This ranking underscores the challenges the Wolfpack anticipates facing against some formidable opponents. Looking closer at the conference rivals, North Carolina is projected to finish eighth, while Duke is forecasted to finish sixth. These projections create a significant motivational factor for the Wolfpack, aiming to prove the media wrong and establish a stronger presence within the Research Triangle. The team’s 10th-place finish mirrors their ACC performance from the previous year, where they concluded with a 3-5 record in conference play and a 6-7 overall record. This past season presented numerous obstacles for Doeren and the Wolfpack, primarily stemming from a series of key injuries that forced players into unfamiliar roles. However, this situation could ultimately prove beneficial as it fostered increased experience among the team’s roster. This added experience will undoubtedly be a key asset as the Wolfpack navigates the challenges of the 2025 season.
The media poll’s projections are particularly relevant in the current college football environment, heavily influenced by the transfer portal. The rise of Arizona State, which was predicted to finish last in the Big 12 but went on to win the conference and appear in the College Football Playoff, serves as a potent reminder that unforeseen circumstances can dramatically alter team trajectories. The Wolfpack will leverage this media skepticism as a driving force throughout training camp, fueling their determination to exceed expectations. The team’s focus will undoubtedly be sharpened as they prepare for their opening showdown against in-state rival East Carolina at the end of August. The Wolfpack's journey will be closely followed on X (Twitter) @WolfpackOnSI and @SennettTucker, ensuring fans never miss critical updates and news. Be sure to share your thoughts and engage with the Wolfpack community by liking our Facebook page – simply click here [link to Facebook page] to stay connected!