The NC State Wolfpack football team has found itself in a precarious position as the 2022 season nears its conclusion. After a disappointing loss to in-state rival Duke, the team now faces a must-win scenario in its final two games to secure bowl eligibility. With high expectations entering the year, the Wolfpack's struggles have left fans and analysts alike questioning the direction of the program under head coach Dave Doeren.

Navigating a Treacherous Path to Redemption

Facing the Crossroads

The Wolfpack's 29-19 defeat at the hands of the Duke Blue Devils has put the team in a difficult position. With a 5-5 overall record and a 2-4 mark in ACC play, NC State must win its final two games against Georgia Tech and North Carolina to become bowl eligible. Failure to do so would not only end the team's postseason hopes but also potentially tarnish Doeren's legacy, as a loss to the rival Tar Heels would result in an in-state sweep for the first time since his debut season in 2013.

Doeren's Rallying Cry

In the aftermath of the Duke loss, Doeren emphasized the importance of finishing the season strong, telling his players, "We have two opportunities to finish. That's what they're going to remember, how they finish." The head coach acknowledged the need for the team to make necessary corrections, regain their focus, and get back to work, setting the stage for a potential turnaround in the final stretch.

Wolfpack's Preseason Expectations

NC State entered the 2022 campaign with high hopes, having added a crop of highly-rated transfers and returning several key players. The Wolfpack was picked to finish fourth in the preseason ACC media poll, with aspirations of competing for a spot in the ACC championship game and the 12-team College Football Playoff. However, the team's current standing in the conference standings, sitting 14th and ahead of only two newcomers and a struggling Florida State squad, has been a far cry from those lofty preseason projections.

Seeking Redemption on the Road

After four consecutive seasons with at least eight victories, the Wolfpack now faces the daunting task of needing to win its final two games, including a bowl victory, to reach that mark once again. The team's upcoming schedule presents a unique challenge, as they travel to Atlanta to face Georgia Tech on a Thursday night before making the short trip to Chapel Hill to take on the Tar Heels in the regular-season finale.

Overcoming Historical Hurdles

The Wolfpack's recent history at Georgia Tech has been less than favorable, as they have lost 11 of their last 15 games at Bobby Dodd Stadium and haven't won there since 2010. However, the team can take solace in the fact that they were able to win their final two ACC road games last season, a feat they will need to replicate if they hope to secure back-to-back conference road victories for the first time since 2017-18.

A Glimmer of Hope

Despite the team's current struggles, defensive back Tamarcus Cooley expressed a sense of determination, stating, "We've got two games. We're going to take advantage of our opportunities, be bowl eligible. That's about it." This unwavering mindset, coupled with the Wolfpack's recent road success, could provide the spark needed to overcome the challenges that lie ahead and secure a postseason berth.As the Wolfpack navigate the final stretch of their season, the team and its fans will be closely watching to see if they can rise to the occasion and salvage what has been a disappointing campaign. The road ahead is treacherous, but the opportunity for redemption remains, and the Wolfpack will need to dig deep to prove their mettle and secure a bowl invitation.