Full Breakdown
Notre Dame Dominates NC State in Second Half for 36-7 Victory
10/12/2025, 12:27:08 PM
Game Overview
On October 11, 2025, the No. 16 Notre Dame Fighting Irish faced off against the North Carolina State Wolfpack at Notre Dame Stadium, securing a decisive 36-7 victory. The win marked Notre Dame's fourth consecutive triumph, improving their record to 4-2, while NC State fell to 4-3.
First Half: A Defensive Struggle
The game began with Notre Dame quickly establishing momentum, as running back Jeremiyah Love scored a two-yard touchdown on the opening drive. However, NC State responded with a 45-yard touchdown pass from quarterback CJ Bailey to wide receiver Terrell Anderson, tying the game at 7-7 early in the second quarter. The first half concluded with Notre Dame leading 10-7 after kicker Noah Burnette successfully converted a 48-yard field goal just before halftime.
Despite the close score, Notre Dame outgained NC State 241-146 in total yards during the first half, showcasing a strong defensive performance that included two red-zone turnovers forced by the Wolfpack.
Second Half: Notre Dame's Offensive Surge
The second half saw a dramatic shift in momentum as Notre Dame's offense came alive. Quarterback CJ Carr threw two touchdown passes, one to KK Smith and another to Will Pauling, extending the lead to 24-7 by the end of the third quarter. The Irish continued to dominate, scoring 26 unanswered points in the second half.
Notre Dame's defense played a crucial role, intercepting Bailey three times and recording four sacks. The Irish held NC State to just 233 total yards, a stark contrast to their season average of 447.7 yards per game.
Key Performers
CJ Carr completed 19 of 31 passes for 342 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception, while Love rushed for 86 yards and two touchdowns. Tight end Eli Raridon had a standout performance with seven receptions for 109 yards, marking his first career 100-yard game. Will Pauling also contributed significantly with four catches for 105 yards and a touchdown.
For NC State, Bailey struggled, finishing with 186 passing yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. The Wolfpack's running game was stifled, with star running back Hollywood Smothers managing only 46 yards on 12 carries.
Official Statements & Responses
Notre Dame head coach Marcus Freeman acknowledged the team's slow start but emphasized the importance of the second-half performance. "My message was stop beating Notre Dame," he stated, reflecting on the need for improvement despite the victory. NC State coach Dave Doeren expressed disappointment, noting that turnovers were a significant factor in the loss. "C.J. (Bailey) was off," he said, highlighting missed opportunities for the Wolfpack.
Criticism & Opposition
The game was marred by controversial officiating decisions, particularly regarding a review that upheld a catch for NC State that many believed should have been ruled incomplete. Former NFL official Terry McAulay called the decision "the worst replay ruling" of the season, drawing ire from Notre Dame fans and media alike.
What's Next
Following the victory, Notre Dame prepares to face their rival, the USC Trojans, in a highly anticipated matchup. NC State will take a bye week before traveling to Pittsburgh on October 25, looking to regroup after their disappointing performance against the Irish.
In summary, Notre Dame's dominant second-half performance against NC State not only solidified their winning streak but also showcased their potential as they aim for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
