In a matchup that never really felt in doubt, the NC State Wolfpack steamrolled the Campbell Fighting Camels 38-7 on Saturday afternoon at Carter-Finley Stadium. The game, kicking off at 2 p.m. ET under clear Raleigh skies, showcased NC State's superior depth and execution, especially after a frustrating stretch of losses. For the Wolfpack, now 4-2 on the season, this was a much-needed bounce-back, while Campbell slips to 1-5, their defensive woes laid bare once again.
From the opening drive, NC State asserted control. Quarterback Ben Finley connected on 18 of 22 passes for 245 yards and three touchdowns, slicing through a Campbell secondary that couldn't keep pace. The Wolfpack's ground game added another 180 yards, with running back Delbert Mimms bulldozing for two scores. Indeed, the first half ended 28-0, prompting some fans to head out early, perhaps sensing the mercy rule in spirit. Campbell managed a late touchdown on a scramble by their quarterback, but it was too little, too late—more a consolation than a comeback.
However, injuries continue to nag at NC State. Linebacker Sean Brown sat out entirely, and with multiple defensive backs sidelined for the year, coach Dave Doeren rotated in freshmen who held firm but looked raw at times. Campbell, meanwhile, struggled with just 112 total yards, their offense stifled by NC State's front seven. Moreover, this was the first football meeting between the in-state foes, a lopsided debut that highlights the gap between ACC power and FCS reality.
The win propels NC State into conference play with renewed momentum, though questions linger about their secondary's long-term health. For Campbell, it's back to the drawing board, hoping to salvage something from a tough nonconference slate. As the Wolfpack turn their focus to bigger ACC battles ahead, one can't help but wonder if this easy victory masks deeper issues or signals a true turnaround.