Dave Doeren's Final Thoughts Before Miami Road Trip

NC State’s bye-week recovery boosts their chances heading to No. 15 Miami, but Miami’s stingy run defense (88 YPG) means the Wolfpack could struggle on the ground. Bettors might favor Miami in a low-scoring game or back the under; consider Miami ML or a small spread while avoiding large wagers on NC State rushing props.

NC State Travels to No. 15 Miami in Season Finale

NC State will close its 2025 road slate at Hard Rock Stadium against the No. 15 Miami Hurricanes. The matchup carries added drama with sophomore quarterback CJ Bailey returning to South Florida after a high school career near Miami. Head coach Dave Doeren emphasized the team’s refreshed health and preparation after a second bye week.

Doeren: Bye Week Helped Health and Preparation

Doeren said the second bye was valuable for healing and getting a head start on Miami preparation. He contrasted this bye with the first of the season, noting the different focus when only two games remain. "It was great. It was needed. It gave the guys a chance to heal up and we got a head start on our opponent," he said. Practices after the break, Doeren added, have been sharp and energetic.

Managing Momentum and Avoiding Complacency

Doeren stressed the danger of the "attaboy syndrome" after a win. "Enjoy the win for a couple days because we have a bye. But then once we started our Miami prep, that's over," he said, urging players to flush the victory and stay focused. He also noted the increased difficulty of repeating a win on the road against a top-ranked opponent in a hostile environment.

Miami's Defense: A Run-Stopping Challenge

A central concern for NC State is Miami’s elite run defense, which is yielding just 88 rushing yards per game. Doeren warned that Miami’s defensive front and plus-one pressures will test the Wolfpack’s offensive balance. "They're going to try to plus-one you," he said, adding that the Hurricanes' scheming and run-blitz design force opponents to avoid becoming one-dimensional. Preventing negative-yardage plays will be critical.

Scheme and Matchup Notes

Doeren observed that schematics differ from team to team and lamented the lack of similar defensive reps in preparation, saying it would be preferable to face opponents with schemes closer to Miami’s. He described Miami’s defensive coordinator as adept at targeting run blitzes and praised the tackles and safeties who support box tackling.

Players to Watch: Versatility in the Secondary

Doeren singled out Asaad Brown for his versatility and rapid growth, praising the freshman's ability to play nickel, strong, and free safety roles. "To be able to play three spots in your first year as a true starter says a lot about [Brown's] football IQ," Doeren said, crediting both the coaches and the young players for their development.

What This Means for the Game

The matchup shapes up as a test of NC State’s offensive adaptability versus Miami’s front. Expect an emphasis on limiting negative plays and maintaining balance. The Wolfpack’s health advantage from the bye could narrow gaps, but Miami’s run defense and pressure packages make a low-scoring, tightly contested game likely.

Betting Considerations

Given Miami’s ability to stifle the run and NC State’s refreshed roster, the safer betting lines could be Miami on the moneyline or a modest spread. The defensive tendencies point to a lower total, so the under is worth consideration. Avoid heavy reliance on NC State rushing props unless lines reflect limited expectations for their ground game.

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