What Is 2022 NC State Wolfpack football team

Overview

The 2022 NC State Wolfpack football team represented North Carolina State University during the 2022 NCAA Division I FBS football season. Led by head coach Dave Doeren in his 11th season, the team competed in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) as part of the Atlantic Division.

The Wolfpack showed resilience throughout the year, finishing with a solid 8-5 overall record and a 5-3 mark in conference play. Their season culminated in a bowl victory, marking a successful campaign despite quarterback changes and tough ACC competition.

• Season record: The team finished 8-5 overall and 5-3 in ACC play, showcasing competitive balance against conference rivals.
• Head coach: Dave Doeren led the team in his 11th season, maintaining consistent program stability and development.
• Home stadium: All home games were played at Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, North Carolina, with a capacity of over 57,000.
• Bowl game: NC State defeated the East Carolina Pirates 34-27 in the 2022 Holiday Bowl on December 28 in San Diego.
• Quarterback situation: Devin Leary began the season as starter but was replaced by MJ Morris due to injury, shifting offensive dynamics.

Season Performance

The 2022 campaign featured a mix of high-scoring games and defensive standouts, with the Wolfpack navigating a challenging ACC schedule. Injuries and quarterback transitions tested the team’s depth, but they remained bowl-eligible for the seventh consecutive season.

• Key win: A 30-21 victory over No. 4 Clemson on October 1 was the program’s first win over a top-five team since 2007.
• Offensive output: The team averaged 28.5 points per game, led by running back Jordan Houston and receiver Devin Carter.
• Defensive stats: NC State’s defense allowed 23.6 points per game, ranking in the upper half of the ACC in scoring defense.
• Turnover margin: The Wolfpack had a positive turnover margin of +5, with 19 takeaways and 14 giveaways.
• Special teams: kicker Christopher Dunn set a school record with 32 field goals made, earning All-American honors.
• Injuries: Starting QB Devin Leary missed multiple games due to a rib injury, leading to MJ Morris taking over as starter.

Comparison at a Glance

NC State’s 2022 season compared favorably to recent years, maintaining bowl eligibility and securing a ranked win.

This table illustrates NC State’s consistency under Doeren, with the 2022 season being one of the more memorable due to the upset over Clemson and strong special teams play. While not reaching the ACC Championship, the team remained competitive and ended the year with a bowl win.

Why It Matters

The 2022 season reinforced NC State’s status as a steady program in the ACC, capable of challenging elite teams and developing NFL talent. The year highlighted the importance of depth, especially at quarterback, and the value of consistent coaching.

• Program stability: Remaining bowl-eligible for seven straight years reflects strong program management under Dave Doeren.
• Player development: Several players, including DT CJ Clark and WR Devin Carter, improved draft stock during the season.
• Recruiting impact: The win over Clemson boosted recruiting momentum in the 2023 class, particularly in North Carolina.
• Special teams excellence: Kicker Christopher Dunn’s record-setting season drew national recognition and All-American status.
• Bowl significance: The Holiday Bowl victory marked NC State’s first win over an AAC opponent in a bowl game since 2011.
• Future outlook: The 2022 season laid groundwork for 2023, with returning starters and improved quarterback depth.

Overall, the 2022 NC State Wolfpack football team demonstrated resilience, competitive spirit, and coaching continuity, solidifying its role as a mid-tier ACC program with occasional high-impact performances.