Western Carolina Catamounts vs NC State Wolfpack Odds
| Western Carolina Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+32 -108 | 61 -112o / -108u | +3000 |
| NC State Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-32 -112 | 61 -112o / -108u | -10000 |
We have an interstate matchup, as the NC State Wolfpack play host to their directional opposition, the Western Carolina Catamounts.
The Wolfpack enter the 2024 season with optimism, but the Catamounts are a more formidable task than the 32.5-point spread may portray.
After finishing 9-4 last season, Dave Doren is set to lead a revamped NC State squad. While they have a lighter conference schedule, next week's matchup with Tennesse is looming and may significantly impact the Wolfpack's performance this week.
The Catamounts have proven to be a solid FCS program looking to build on last year's success. They went 7-4 but ultimately missed the FCS playoffs. However, they've dipped into the transfer portal to retool and enter the season ranked as the No. 16 team in FCS by Hero Sports.
Western Carolina vs NC State Prediction
- Western Carolina vs NC State Pick: Under 61
My Western Carolina vs. NC State best bet is on the under with the best line currently available at DraftKings, according to our live NCAAF odds page.
Western Carolina vs NC State Preview
Western Carolina Catamounts Betting Preview: Can High-Flying Offense Compete?
As mentioned above, Western Carolina comes into this season opener with many positives.
Their winning record in 2023 was spurred by their high-flying offense, which averaged 37.5 points per game, good for fourth in the FCS.
The Catamounts are led by quarterback Cole Gonzales, the 2023 SoCon Offensive Player of the Year. Gonzales was sensational through the air, throwing for 2,800 yards and 28 touchdowns while rushing for 203 yards.
A revamped offensive line and veteran receivers will support him. But the Wolfpack defense will be their toughest test all year.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Catamounts are returning eight of their 11 top tacklers, all of whom were part of a defense that held its opposition to 27.7 points per game.
While the Wolfpack offense will undoubtedly be a test, NC State may not have to contend with its full extent. NC State will likely not want to give the Tennessee Volunteers much tape to work with heading into next week's matchup.
NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview: Look For Offensive Growth
Last season, the Wolfpack relied on a tenacious defense to keep them in games.
This year, the offense is expected to keep its end of the bargain. Grayson McCall and Jordan Waters Sr will head up that charge.
McCall and Waters were highly prized transfers as they brought years of starting production to an offense that needed some explosiveness. Last year, Robert Anae couldn't scheme up a ton of passing success with Brennan Armstrong, but McCall's mobility and experience can make this offense dynamic.
Not to mention, McCall has a flourishing talent at wide receiver in Kevin Concepcion, who can take a giant leap forward this season if the offensive line holds up better.
The offensive line was an issue that impacted everything on offense for the Wolfpack. But it should be different this year, as three offensive line starters return from last year's squad.
As for how it will look against Western Carolina, we should see them roll in the first half. The Catamounts' secondary has talent but will be overmatched up front.
We likely won't see the full playbook as NC State will be looking ahead, but they won't need it if they can find success on the ground.
Western Carolina – NC State Pick & Prediction
Since this is an FCS vs. FBS game, markets on this matchup are not that broad, but we have seen some action on the total. It has come down a point at some spots, and that's because of NC State's tough spot.
The Wolfpack has the talent to dominate on both sides, but we likely won't see their offense at full throttle. So, with the Wolfpack taking their foot off the gas late in the game, the under will be very live, especially if Western Carolina struggles offensively.
Pick: Under 61 (Play to 58.5) |
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How to Watch Western Carolina vs NC State Live: Start Time, TV Channel, Location
| Location: | Carter-Finley Stadium, Raleigh, NC |
| Date: | Thursday, Aug. 29 |
| Kickoff Time: | 7 p.m. ET |
| TV / Streaming: | ACC Network |
Western Carolina vs NC State Betting Trends
- 71% of the bets and 65% of the money are on the under.
- Only 19% of the bets are on NC State to cover the 32.5-point spread, but over 63% of the money is.
- NC State went 7-6 against the spread in 2023, including 5-2 ATS at home.
