ACC Football: Georgia Tech at NC State: Preview and Prediction

The Georgia Tech bandwagon is starting to fill up (or is it the rambling wreck, pictured, that is filling up?).

Either way, Georgia Tech is starting to get more love, for good reason too.  They are 4-0 for the first time since the 1990 National Championship season.  The Jackets are clicking in their triple-option offense once again, averaging just under 400 yards per game on the ground, and they lead the nation in points scored.

After dismantling Kansas and winning their first conference game against UNC, Georgia Tech should have no problem with NC State, right?

Maybe.  While the Wolfpack aren't near the top of the ACC, they are a team that can throw the ball well at times.  The running game has suffered (negative yards against Cincinnati), but there are some playmakers at wide receiver—T.J. Graham has 19 catches for 428 yards and four touchdowns and is a threat in the kick-return game. 

Georgia Tech's defense has been susceptible at times this year.  They have given up over 21 points in every game this year and allowed UNC to tie the game with 14 fourth-quarter points last week.  NC State is going to need every point they can muster.

That's because the Wolfpack defense has been horrendous this year.  Due to injuries, they will be starting what is already their third starting defensive line combo.  They gave up an average of 470 yards to Cincinnati and Wake Forest.  Many times, Cinci looked like they were scrimmaging against air.

Right now, it is hard to go against the way Georgia Tech is running the football.  Also, it is hard to go with the way NC State is playing defense and not running the football.  Don't be surprised if NC State throws the ball effectively, though, and puts up a few points.  In the end, however, GT's offense will be too much for a depleted Wolfpack team to handle.

The Pick:

Georgia Tech: 35, NC State 24  (updated from my pick earlier in the week)