North Carolina State edges California 24-23 in thrilling comeback

In Berkeley, California, North Carolina State achieved a dramatic victory over California with a final score of 24-23. The game saw freshman quarterback CJ Bailey throw for 306 yards and two touchdowns, including a crucial 41-yard pass to Hollywood Smothers in the fourth quarter. This win was pivotal for North Carolina State, who had been struggling this season, with their previous two games resulting in losses. After trailing 23-10, they rallied back, showcasing resilience and momentum when it mattered most. Bailey, despite facing intense pressure from the opposing defense, managed to complete 25 of 36 passes. The turning point came after a fumbled punt return by California, which allowed Bailey to connect with Dacari Collins for a 1-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the score to 23-17. Capitalizing on the defensive hold, the Wolfpack regained possession and successfully drove down the field for the game-winner. The Bears had their chance to clinch victory but missed a 28-yard field goal attempt late in the game. California, despite strong performances from Fernando Mendoza and Jaivian Thomas, suffered their fourth consecutive loss. Following their successful start to the season, this defeat highlighted the struggles faced by the Golden Bears, who lost their first three conference games narrowly. The defeat raised concerns for coach Justin Wilcox's team, while North Carolina State looks ahead to potentially building a winning streak. As North Carolina State heads into a bye week, this victory could be a crucial turning point in their season, offering a much-needed boost to their morale and performance as they prepare to host Stanford next.