The North Carolina State Wolfpack football team has a rich history spanning over a century, with numerous memorable moments that have captivated fans and shaped the program’s identity. As we dive into the top 5 plays in NC State Wolfpack football history, we’ll explore the most iconic moments that have left an indelible mark on the program.
The Birth of a Rivalry: The 1959 Miracle on Hillsborough
Roman Gabriel’s Record-Breaking Performance
| Year | Opponent | Passing Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1960 | Wake Forest | 221 | 2 |
| 1961 | Duke | 448 | 4 |
The 2002 Tangerine Bowl Upset
On December 23, 2002, the NC State Wolfpack pulled off a stunning upset in the Tangerine Bowl, defeating Notre Dame 28-6. Led by quarterback Philip Rivers, the Wolfpack defense held the Fighting Irish to just 164 total yards, with only 26 rushing yards. This decisive victory marked one of the biggest upsets in bowl game history and capped off an impressive season for the Wolfpack.
- Strong defensive performance, limiting Notre Dame to just 164 total yards
- Philip Rivers' efficient quarterback play, throwing for 189 yards and a touchdown
- Effective special teams unit, which helped pin Notre Dame deep in their own territory throughout the game
The 2012 St. Petersburg Bowl Comeback
In the 2012 St. Petersburg Bowl, the Wolfpack staged an incredible comeback against Rutgers, overcoming a 10-point deficit in the final minutes to win 27-24 in overtime. Quarterback Mike Glennon’s 4-yard touchdown pass to Tobias Palmer in overtime sealed the victory, capping off an unforgettable finish to the season.
The 1983 Miracle at Miami
One of the most enduring plays in NC State history occurred on November 12, 1983, when the Wolfpack faced off against Miami in a nationally televised game. Trailing 7-6 with just 1:28 remaining, NC State quarterback Mike Jones threw a 52-yard Hail Mary pass to tight end Dave Vestal, who hauled in the ball in the end zone for the game-winning touchdown. This dramatic finish not only stunned the Hurricanes but also became an iconic moment in Wolfpack lore.
What was the significance of Roman Gabriel's performance against Duke in 1961?
+Roman Gabriel's 448-yard passing performance and four touchdowns against Duke in 1961 set multiple records and showcased his exceptional skill as a quarterback. This outstanding display helped establish him as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NC State history.
How did the 2002 Tangerine Bowl upset impact NC State's program?
+The 2002 Tangerine Bowl upset victory over Notre Dame marked one of the biggest upsets in bowl game history and capped off an impressive season for the Wolfpack. This win demonstrated the team's resilience and ability to perform under pressure on the biggest stage.
What made the 2012 St. Petersburg Bowl comeback memorable?
+The 2012 St. Petersburg Bowl comeback against Rutgers was memorable due to the Wolfpack's ability to overcome a 10-point deficit in the final minutes and win 27-24 in overtime. Mike Glennon's 4-yard touchdown pass to Tobias Palmer in overtime sealed the victory, capping off an unforgettable finish to the season.
How did the 1959 Miracle on Hillsborough impact the NC State-UNC rivalry?
+The 1959 Miracle on Hillsborough, where NC State won 15-14 on a last-second field goal, marked a turning point in the rivalry between NC State and North Carolina. This thrilling finish not only secured a crucial victory for the Wolfpack but also cemented the 1959 team's place in NC State lore.
What was the significance of the 1983 Miracle at Miami?
+The 1983 Miracle at Miami, where NC State won on a Hail Mary pass from Mike Jones to Dave Vestal, became an iconic moment in Wolfpack lore. This dramatic finish not only stunned the Hurricanes but also showcased the team's ability to perform under pressure and pull off dramatic victories.
These top 5 plays in NC State Wolfpack football history represent some of the most memorable moments that have shaped the program’s identity and captivated fans over the years. From thrilling finishes to dominant performances, these plays continue to be celebrated and remembered by Wolfpack enthusiasts.
