North Carolina vs NC State Picks and Prediction for Saturday, November 29, 2025

By: Jake Allman Published 11/23/2025, 11:28 PM ET

North Carolina heads to Carter-Finley Stadium for a 7:30 PM ET kickoff on ACC Network in a rivalry that usually includes chaos. The Tar Heels are 4-7 after a 32-25 loss to Duke, while NC State sits at 6-5 following a 21-11 win over Florida State. Oddsmakers have NC State -8.5 with a total of 48.5. Rivalry week? Bowl season? Our college football predictions keep you ahead.

North Carolina Preview

North Carolina’s offense remains unpredictable. Gio Lopez has thrown for 1,629 yards with 9 touchdowns and 5 picks, and Jordan Shipp continues to lead the passing game with 581 yards and 5 scores. Demon June’s 461 rushing yards haven’t created the balance UNC needs, which has shown up during a two-game losing streak where the offense stalled for long stretches. The Heels can move the ball, but sustaining drives has been a recurring problem.

UNC’s issues stopping the run and generating consistent pressure have hurt them. Melkart Abou Jaoude leads with 10 sacks, but the rest of the front has struggled to create pressure. Khmori House has produced 74 tackles, yet opponents continue to control early downs and force UNC into long drives. Facing a physical NC State offense at home puts added strain on a unit that hasn’t finished well in tight games. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for North Carolina with the Thrillz promo code.

NC State Preview

NC State’s offense centers on CJ Bailey’s effectiveness. Bailey has thrown for 2,683 yards and 21 touchdowns, and he rarely forces mistakes. Terrell Anderson leads the receiving group with 596 yards and 5 scores, while Hollywood Smothers powers the ground attack with 907 yards and 6 touchdowns. When the Wolfpack establishes a balanced offense, they usually dictate tempo.

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NC State’s defense showed real improvement last week by limiting FSU to 11 points. Travali Price and his 2.5 sacks help spark the pass rush, and Caden Fordham anchors the defense with 118 tackles. This group can give up big plays, but overall physicality and better late-game execution give them a strong matchup against an inconsistent UNC offense. Make the most of your bets on NC State by using the sportsbook promos.

NC State vs North Carolina Prediction and Reasoning

NC State has the steadier quarterback, the stronger ground game, and better defensive momentum. North Carolina has competed in stretches but hasn’t closed well on the road. NC State’s ability to control possession should be the difference. Make sure when you place your North Carolina vs NC State bet you are using the bet365 bonus code.

Final Score: NC State 27, North Carolina 17