Virginia Tech vs. North Carolina State, odds, predictions, Week 12

For the final time in 2023, the Virginia Tech football team will take the field at Lane Stadium on Saturday afternoon when they host ACC foe North Carolina State. Dave Doeren’s Wolfpack enters the game at 7-3 and looking to improve their bowl game next month with a win, while Brent Pry’s team comes in at 5-5, winners of four of their last six and needing to win one more game to become bowl-eligible.

This matchup is going to be two good defenses going up against two offenses that have been good this season in ACC games. Something is going to have to give on both sides of the ball, while special teams are going to play a big part in the game with the punting game and the fight for field position. Let’s break down the game with odds, how to watch, some players to watch, and a final prediction.

Virginia Tech vs. North Carolina State, odds, spread, total

As I’m writing this article, the Hokies are a 2.5 favorite with an over/under of 42.5.

Virginia Tech vs. North Carolina State, How to Watch

• Date: Saturday, Nov. 18
• Time: 3:30 p.m.
• Venue: Lane Stadium, Blacksburg, Va.
• How to Watch: ACC Network or fubotv
• Virginia Tech record: 5-5 (4-2 ACC)
• NC State record: 7-3 (4-2 ACC)

Virginia Tech vs. North Carolina State Players to Watch

Virginia Tech

Bhayshul Tuten, RB: This is going to be a huge test for the Hokies running game. The Wolfpack have a very good defense and their defensive line is one of the better ones in the ACC. Last week Tutan didn’t rack up a ton of yards, but he did find the end zone three times and he is due for a breakout and what better time than this week?

NC State

Brennan Armstrong, QB: After MJ Morris decided to step away for the remainder of the 2023 season and redshirt, Doeren has gone back to the Virginia transfer, who played well in a win over Wake Forest last weekend. Containing him will be key for the Hokies as he has the ability like Kyron Drones to make a play with his legs if things break down.

Virginia Tech vs. North Carolina State Prediction

Aside from Florida State and Louisville, this is going to be the toughest test of the season for the Hokies against the Wolfpack. They have a good defense and their offense is capable of making big plays. This game could come down to special teams, something that Pry’s team has been very good at this season. It’s senior day at Lane Stadium and Tech has an opportunity to get to bowl-eligibility, but the problem is, NC State is not Pittsburgh, Wake Forest, or Syracuse. Getting off to a good start is going to be key for the Hokies. This game can go any way and don’t be surprised if it comes down to which team has the ball last.

Prediction: NC State 23, Virginia Tech 21