Berkeley, CA
Oct 19, 2024
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In a nail-biting affair, NC State pulled off a comeback to clinch a 24-23 victory over California at California Memorial Stadium, marking their first ACC win of the season after starting 0-3 in conference play. Jaivian Thomas opened the contest with a 49-yard rushing touchdown, giving the Bears an early lead. California extended their advantage to 23-10 by the end of the third quarter, but NC State charged back in the fourth.
NC State's rally was spearheaded by the freshman quarterback CJ Bailey, who completed 25 of 36 passes for 306 yards and two touchdowns, avoiding any turnovers despite being sacked six times. Bailey connected with Dacari Collins for a crucial 1-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter and found Hollywood Smothers for a 41-yard score which ultimately decided the game. Cal had a chance to snatch victory in the dying moments, but Derek Morris missed a 28-yard field goal attempt, sealing the Wolfpack's triumph.
Jaivian Thomas (California)
Set the tone with a 49-yard rushing touchdown on California's first possession, establishing an early 7-0 lead over NC State.
Kanoah Vinesett (NC State)
Drilled a 27-yard field goal to put NC State on the board, cutting California's lead to 7-3 late in the first quarter.
Isaiah Crowell (NC State)
Recovered Jaivian Thomas' fumble at the Cal 47, setting up a critical NC State drive and contributing to maintaining pressure on the Bears.
CJ Bailey (NC State)
Delivered a pivotal 1-yard touchdown pass to Dacari Collins, narrowing the deficit to 23-17 and swinging the momentum towards NC State.
Hollywood Smothers (NC State)
Broke free on a 41-yard touchdown pass from CJ Bailey, completing NC State's thrilling comeback and putting them ahead 24-23.
Derek Morris (California)
Faced high stakes with a 28-yard field goal attempt to regain the lead, but missed, finalizing a heart-wrenching loss for California.
CJ Bailey (NC State, QB)
Displayed remarkable poise and efficiency as he led NC State's comeback from a 13-point deficit, throwing for 306 yards and two touchdowns without an interception, earning a 159.2 passer rating.
Hollywood Smothers (NC State, RB/WR)
The versatile playmaker accumulated 112 total yards and snagged six receptions, including the winning 41-yard touchdown catch, electrifying the offense in crucial moments.
Justin Joly (NC State, TE)
Proved to be an invaluable target in the passing attack, making four catches for 95 yards, notably a 31-yard grab that set up a key touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Devon Marshall (NC State, CB)
Tied for a team-high with eight tackles and contributed a vital pass breakup in the fourth quarter, showcasing resilience by playing through a minor injury.
Jaivian Thomas (California, RB)
Delivered a pair of rushing touchdowns and accumulated 78 yards on the ground, notably opening the scoring with a 49-yard dash and extending the lead with a 7-yard run.
NC State Wolfpack
3
7
0
14
24
California Golden Bears
7
6
10
0
23
