Vols Suffocate Wolfpack in 51-10 Queen City Victory

After a dominant 69-3 win over Chattanooga in week one, The Tennessee Vols (2-0) continued their hopeful push towards a College Football Playoff berth on Saturday evening. The Vols defeated North Carolina State (1-1) by a comfortable 51-10 in Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium. The Vols got out to a 20-3 halftime lead, highlighted by Will Brooks 85 yard pick six late in the second quarter. After halftime, Tennessee immediately scored to start the second half to increase their lead to 27-3.

Their run/pass balance was on full display, as Dylan Sampson and Nico Iamaleava combined for 34 yards on the first possession of the half. Iamaleava also threw for 41 yards on the drive, finishing it with a 15 yard touchdown completion to Alabama transfer tight end Miles Kitselman. Tennessee never really seemed to be pushed by NC State after the first quarter.

Photo bySteve DiMatteoonUnsplash

Vols Manhandled the Wolfpack

Tennessee manhandled North Carolina State in the trenches. On offense, the Vols line pushed the Wolfpack around, leading to 249 yards on the ground. Running back Dylan Sampson led the way with 132 yards rushing and two touchdowns. Iamaleava added 65 yards and a touchdown, while Desean Bishop also had 42 yards on 10 carries. Iamaleava also had 211 yards passing and two more touchdowns through the air.

Tim Banks’ defense didn’t allow North Carolina State any running room either. The Vols had 12 tackles for loss on the night. The Wolfpack only managed 39 rushing yards on the night and 143 yards overall. Starting running back Jordan Waters finished the night with -4 yards on seven carries and Hollywood Smothers led the team with 26 yards. The lone bright spot for the NC State offense was star receiver Kevin Concepcion. He finished with five catches for 53 yards.

Tennessee Vols Flex Defensive Muscle in Blowout

The pick six was the big play in the first half, but the entire defensive effort was suffocating for the NC State offense. Grayson McCall didn’t have much time to look down field, as he was under constant duress from the Tennessee defensive line. Defensive tackles Omari Thomas and Omarr Norman-Lott knocked down multiple pass attempts and edge rusher Dominic Bailey forced a fumble with a strip recovery.

McCall never looked comfortable, as he turned the ball over three times (one interception and two fumbles). North Carolina’s only touchdown came on an interception return after Iamaleava floated a ball when he was hit.

Next Up for Tennessee

The Vols will play host to Kent State next Saturday at 7:45 pm EST inside Neyland Stadium. Kent State (0-2) lost to FCS program St. Francis PA 23-17 on Saturday afternoon. The Golden Flashes have lost 11 consecutive games dating back to the 2023 season.

For More Great Content

Are you desiring top-tier content that covers everything? From thrilling sports and intoxicating entertainment news to gaming tips and professional betting advice, Total Apex covers it all. Delve into our no-fluff articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the latest scoops in the gaming industry that will take your experiences to the next level.

Finally, our betting advice will give you a decisive edge over the competition and increase your odds of beating the books. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, Total Apex is your one-stop shop for all things compelling and relevant. Don’t forget we cover Fantasy Sports, too!

Check out all our sites: Total Apex Sports, Total Apex Fantasy Sports, Total Apex Entertainment, Total Apex Sports Bets, and Total Apex Gaming. Out of the ashes of obscurity will rise a beast. Always remember to Respect The Hustle! Follow us on Twitter/X @TotalApexSports to stay informed.

Article originally written by Tom Harvey