NC State Wolfpack vs. University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish – 2023 Football Showdown
Football fans, mark your calendars and get your jerseys ready because the 2023 college football season is about to witness an epic showdown between two powerhouse teams: the NC State Wolfpack and the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the excitement surrounding this game, the history of both teams, key players to watch, and everything you need to know about this highly anticipated matchup.
The 2023 Football Schedule
Let’s begin by taking a look at the 2023 Football Schedule for the NC State Wolfpack. While the season is filled with exciting matchups, the game against Notre Dame on September 9, 2023, is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated games of the year. Here’s a glimpse of NC State’s schedule leading up to this colossal clash:
| Date | Opponent | Location |
| Aug. 31 | USF | Carter-Finley Stadium |
| Sep. 9 | Notre Dame | Carter-Finley Stadium |
| Sep. 16 | Mississippi State | Starkville, MS |
| Sep. 23 | Clemson | Clemson, SC |
| Sep. 30 | Louisville | Carter-Finley Stadium |
| Oct. 7 | Boston College | Boston, MA |
| Oct. 14 | Florida State | Tallahassee, FL |
| Oct. 21 | Wake Forest | Winston-Salem, NC |
| Nov. 4 | Syracuse | Carter-Finley Stadium |
| Nov. 11 | North Carolina | Chapel Hill, NC |
| Nov. 18 | Liberty | Carter-Finley Stadium |
| Nov. 25 | Miami | Coral Gables, FL |
As you can see, the Notre Dame game falls on September 9, 2023, at Carter-Finley Stadium, and it’s circled in red on the calendars of Wolfpack fans everywhere.
Notre Dame vs. NC State: A Brief History
Before we delve into the specifics of this year’s matchup, let’s take a moment to appreciate the football legacies of both the NC State Wolfpack and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
NC State Wolfpack Football
The NC State Wolfpack, representing North Carolina State University, has a rich football history that dates back to the late 19th century. The team competes in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and has a loyal fan base known for creating a vibrant atmosphere at Carter-Finley Stadium. Throughout the years, the Wolfpack has produced numerous NFL talents and has had its share of memorable seasons.
University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish Football
The University of Notre Dame, located in South Bend, Indiana, boasts one of the most storied football programs in college football history. The Fighting Irish are renowned for their iconic golden helmets and the “Touchdown Jesus” mural overlooking Notre Dame Stadium. The team has a tradition of excellence and is known for its “Play Like a Champion Today” sign that players touch before taking the field.
The 2023 Matchup: What to Expect
The game between NC State and Notre Dame in 2023 is generating tremendous buzz, and for good reason. Both teams have a lot to prove, and this early-season clash could set the tone for the rest of their campaigns. Here are some key factors to consider:
Roster Analysis
To gauge the potential outcome of this matchup, it’s essential to assess the talent on both sides. Key players, their positions, and their performance can give us insights into how this game might unfold. While the final roster for the 2023 season may evolve, here’s a snapshot of potential impact players:
NC State Wolfpack
| Player | Position | Key Stats (2022) |
| Devin Leary | Quarterback | 3,660 passing yards, 38 TDs |
| Zonovan Knight | Running Back | 1,097 rushing yards, 9 TDs |
| Ikem Ekwonu | Offensive Line | Consensus All-American |
| Payton Wilson | Linebacker | 108 tackles, 8.5 sacks |
| Chris Ingram | Safety | 4 interceptions |
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
| Player | Position | Key Stats (2022) |
| Jack Coan | Quarterback | 2,809 passing yards, 21 TDs |
| Kyren Williams | Running Back | 1,125 rushing yards, 13 TDs |
| Jarrett Patterson | Offensive Line | Outland Trophy Finalist |
| Kyle Hamilton | Safety | 4 interceptions, 7 pass breakups |
| Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa | Defensive Line | 39 tackles, 6.5 sacks |
Previous Encounters
While the 2023 matchup promises excitement, it’s worth noting that these two teams have faced each other before. The history of their encounters adds an extra layer of anticipation:
- 2016 Gator Bowl: The last time NC State and Notre Dame met on the gridiron was in the Gator Bowl on December 30, 2002. Notre Dame emerged victorious with a 28-6 win.
- 2003 Gator Bowl: Their first-ever meeting took place in the 2003 Gator Bowl, where the Fighting Irish won 28-6.
Both teams have had time to evolve since their last meeting, and the 2023 game will undoubtedly provide a fresh perspective on their respective strengths and strategies.
Coach’s Corner
Coaching plays a pivotal role in a team’s success, and both NC State and Notre Dame have experienced coaches at the helm.
NC State – Dave Doeren
- Dave Doeren, head coach of the Wolfpack, has been with the team since 2013. Under his leadership, NC State has seen significant progress, including bowl victories and competitive seasons in the ACC.
Notre Dame – Brian Kelly
- Brian Kelly, head coach of the Fighting Irish, is a highly respected figure in college football. He’s known for his successful tenure at Notre Dame, where he’s consistently led the team to impressive records and playoff appearances.
Where to Watch
For those unable to attend the game in person, there are various ways to catch the action. Major sports networks typically broadcast college football games, ensuring that fans can watch from the comfort of their homes or favorite sports bars. Keep an eye on the game’s official website or your preferred sports news outlet for viewing information and live updates.
Conclusion
The 2023 matchup between the NC State Wolfpack and the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish is set to be a football extravaganza. With a history of exciting encounters, a roster of talented athletes, and the guidance of experienced coaches, this game has all the ingredients for an unforgettable showdown.
As fans, let’s embrace the excitement, sportsmanship, and camaraderie that college football brings. Whether you’re cheering for the Wolfpack or the Fighting Irish, this game is a celebration of the sport we love. So, get ready to witness gridiron greatness on September 9, 2023, as these two football giants collide in a game that will be talked about for years to come.
