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ACC Football Power Rankings: Can anyone topple Clemson?

By Dante Pryor

Dabo Swinney, Clemson football (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images)
Dabo Swinney, Clemson football (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /
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Sep 7, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack head coach Dave Doeren (center) leads his team onto the field before a game against the Western Carolina Catamounts at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 7, 2019; Raleigh, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack head coach Dave Doeren (center) leads his team onto the field before a game against the Western Carolina Catamounts at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports /

4. North Carolina State Wolfpack

Key returning players: Devin Leary, Zonovan Knight, Ricky Pearson Jr., Daniel Joseph

Key losses: Alim McNeil, Bailey Hockman, Carey Angeline

Season Outlook: The North Carolina Wolfpack had yet another solid season under head coach Dave Doeren. The ‘Pack went to a sixth bowl game in seven seasons under Doeren and won eight games for the fourth time.

This season, the Wolfpack looks to have another solid season under Doeren. North Carolina State found its stride with the one-two punch of Zonovan “Bam” Knight and Ricky Pearson, Jr. Head coach Dave Doeren and his offensive staff have found their quarterback in Devin Leary.

Though North Carolina State’s receivers are not explosive, they are big and physical. It is clear what the ‘Pack wants to do offensively. If NC State can run the ball and get chunk plays with their big receivers, it is a good day at the office.

The defense did take a step back last season. Expect defensive ends Daniel Joseph and Terrell Dawkins to have big seasons; however, the rush defense is a cause for concern. The only teams that struggled to run the ball against the ‘Pack were teams that did not run the ball well last season.

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