NC State football report card: Grading the Wolfpack’s 42-19 win over UNC

by: Noah Fleischman11/30/25fleischman_noah

Nov 29, 2025; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; NC State Wolfpack defensive tackle Brandon Cleveland (44) reacts to his tackle during the first half of the game against North Carolina Tar Heels at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jaylynn Nash-Imagn Images

NC State coach Dave Doeren always wants to beat North Carolina. He has embraced the rivalry with open arms ever since he arrived in Raleigh 13 years ago, and he continued in his dominance over the Tar Heels with a 42-19 win Saturday night at Carter-Finley Stadium. The Wolfpack has now won five straight games over the Tar Heels under Doeren’s tutelage. Let’s take a look at each phase of the Pack’s game and how they did in the victory. Here are the week’s grades for NC State’s offense, defense and special teams.