Instant observations: NC State can’t keep up with Pitt in blowout loss

PITTSBURGH — NC State coach Dave Doeren appeared to look for his offense to spark the Wolfpack to open the game at Pitt. After winning the pregame coin toss, the Pack elected to receive for just the second time this season, an unusual but aggressive approach.  It worked in the Wolfpack’s previous attempt, albeit a 56-10 win over Campbell in Week 6, but it didn’t this time around. Instead, NC State went 3-and-out in just 1:14 of game time before it punted and allowed Pitt to post a 26-yard return right after.  That sequence, which set the Panthers up at the Wolfpack 49-yard line, helped swing the momentum in Pitt’s favor as it marched down the field seamlessly for the opening touchdown of the afternoon. From then on, it was all Pitt as the Panthers were able to blow the doors off the game ni the second half en route to a 53-34 win over NC State on Saturday afternoon at Acrisure Stadium.  Pitt outgained NC State 529-445 in the contest as it held a 29-15 advantage on first downs gained. The Panthers were able to convert six of their 14 third-down opportunities, while the Wolfpack was just 4-for-13 on the critical down.  Sophomore quarterback CJ Bailey finished 24-of-40 passing for 225 yards, three touchdowns and an interception, while redshirt sophomore running back Hollywood Smothers paced the rushing attack with eight carries for 86 yards and a score. Senior tight end Justin Joly, meanwhile, posted six catches for a career-best 101 yards and two touchdowns to lead the Wolfpack’s pass catchers. Here are TheWolfpacker.com’s observations from the team’s fourth straight loss to FBS competition.