2021 was one of the better seasons the Wolfpack had in the school’s history. The Pack had a stout defense that kept opponents under 20 points per game which ranked 14th in the country. On the other side of the ball, NC State put on a show averaging 33.1 points per contest. They finished 9-3 and were ranked 20th in the Final AP poll. For 2022 key players on offense and defense will be returning to the Pack for another exciting season.
Offense
QB-Devin Leary
Devin Leary had an impressive 2021 season for NC State. He was the maestro that organized the Wolfpack offense and allowed them to score as many points as they did. The junior threw for 3,433 yards and 35 touchdowns to only five interceptions. His passing touchdowns ranked tenth most in the nation and set a single-season school record. By season’s end, Leary was among the finalists for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm award.
Leary will be returning for his senior year with unfinished business. He’ll look to build on the success of the previous year and have NC State among the nationally ranked teams in college football. He’ll also have some extra motivation after being left off PFF’s top 10 returning quarterbacks for 2022.
WR-Devin Carter
One of the key factors to Leary’s success was having a trustworthy wideout by his side in Devin Carter. Like Leary, Carter had a career year in 2021 racking up 556 yards and six touchdowns. He was wide receiver two on the depth chart but after fellow receiver Emeka Emezie left the program for the NFL, Carter will step into the number one slot for 2022. Carter’s 6’3” frame combined with his athleticism make him a great weapon on the outside for the Wolfpack offense. With more responsibility and a larger role, Carter is sure to have another career year in Raleigh.
C-Grant Gibson
Grant Gibson has been a captain for the Wolfpack for multiple years and will be back for one last ride. In 2021 Gibson was named to the All-ACC Third-Team as one of the best offensive linemen in the country. The center has played in over 40 games since 2018 and has the most experience on the line being a three-year starter. He’ll be integral to a pass protection unit that allowed just 25 sacks last season. Gibson returning adds a sense of security, familiarity, and veteran leadership to NC State’s offense.
Defense
LB-Drake Thomas
Drake Thomas was the best player on the defensive side of the ball for NC State in 2021. Thomas had a breakout season where he led the Wolfpack in tackles with 99, tackles for loss with 13.5, and six sacks. He was also able to secure turnovers with three interceptions that also led the team. The junior’s stellar play was recognized at the end of the season as he was awarded a spot on the All-ACC First Team. Returning as a senior for 2022, Thomas is expected to have another excellent year, so much so he is on the 2022 Butkus Award Watch List, the award given to the best linebacker in the country.
DT-Cory Durden
Cory Durden was an anchor for the Wolfpack defense in 2021. He racked up 31 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks while playing both on the inside and edge for Tony Gibson’s 3-3-5 defense. Although the numbers may not be impressive, Durden’s impact goes beyond the stats. Time and time again Durden did the dirty of a defensive tackle, clogging running lanes and collapsing the interior pocket on quarterbacks. The pressure he helped generate allowed the linebackers to have success. Durden made the All-ACC First Team last season for his efforts in helping lead one of the best defenses in the country. The defensive tackles will return for another season of hard nose football for the Pack.
S-Tanner Ingle
If there is one player that is the soul of NC State’s defense it’s Tanner Ingle. Ingle brings enough energy for both teams on the field. He’s constantly flying all over the place looking to make a play and deliver a great hit. Last season was Ingle’s best, where he recorded 82 tackles, four quarterback hurries, and an interception. The two-time captain earned All-ACC First Team honors in 2021 and will bring the energy once again in 2022.
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