The NC State Wolfpack football team has long prided itself on its solid defense and dynamic playmakers, but the Achilles’ heel of this program in recent years has been its offensive line. Despite boasting impressive individual talents, the Wolfpack’s offensive line has been a constant source of frustration, leading to one of the worst performances in the ACC and beyond. The struggles of this crucial unit have hampered the team’s ability to succeed offensively, contributing significantly to the inconsistency the Wolfpack has faced throughout the 2024 season.
The Heart of the Problem: Inconsistent Play and Protection
One of the biggest issues with NC State’s offensive line has been its lack of consistency. From game to game, the line has failed to provide stable protection for the quarterback and open up enough lanes for the running backs. Quarterback Brennan Armstrong has been under constant duress this season, regularly finding himself scrambling or even getting sacked, which drastically affects his ability to operate effectively. The offensive line’s failure to protect Armstrong has led to poor pass protection numbers, leaving the quarterback with limited time to make plays  .
This instability has also disrupted the flow of the offense. When the offensive line cannot establish a push in the running game or provide solid protection in the passing game, it forces the Wolfpack into predictable situations. The result is a lopsided offensive attack that opponents can more easily game plan for. NC State’s offensive line has repeatedly failed to establish control up front, making it difficult to build any kind of rhythm or consistency.
Recruiting Shortcomings: A Lack of Depth and Talent
Another major factor contributing to the struggles of NC State’s offensive line is recruiting. While the Wolfpack has had some success in recruiting solid prospects, they have failed to consistently land elite offensive linemen capable of dominating in the ACC. Head coach Dave Doeren’s inability to attract and develop high-caliber talent for this position group has resulted in a lack of depth and experience on the line. As a result, when injuries or other setbacks occur, the offensive line becomes even more vulnerable .
Even when talented players are recruited, the development has not always matched expectations. Players fail to reach their full potential, resulting in a drop-off in overall performance. This lack of player development has been evident in the frequent breakdowns seen across various games, particularly in high-pressure moments when the line is expected to hold up against elite pass rushers. Recruiting the right players is essential, but without proper coaching and development, even the best prospects can fail to meet expectations.
Coaching Decisions and Schemes: A Poor Fit for the Talent
The struggles of the NC State offensive line are not just about the players; coaching decisions and schemes have also played a role. Despite having some talented players on the roster, the coaching staff has often failed to adapt and implement schemes that maximize the strengths of the offensive line. The Wolfpack has struggled with a pass-heavy offense, which puts additional pressure on an already weak offensive line to protect the quarterback.
Moreover, the offensive line has had issues with technique and fundamentals, often losing battles in the trenches because they fail to win individual matchups. Coaches have not been able to address these technical issues consistently, leaving players at a disadvantage against opponents with superior defensive lines. Pass protection and run blocking, two of the most crucial elements for any offensive line, have been inconsistent due to a lack of adjustment and strategy  .
Lack of Communication and Cohesion
Offensive lines are often referred to as the “unsung heroes” of a football team because of how crucial their communication and cohesion are. NC State’s offensive line has struggled to work together as a unit, often failing to execute basic blocking schemes and make the necessary adjustments in real-time. In many games this season, there have been moments where miscommunication led to free rushers getting to Armstrong or missed blocks in key running situations .
Good offensive lines are built on trust and chemistry, but that cohesion has been lacking for NC State. The inability of the offensive line to communicate effectively, especially in high-pressure situations, has led to breakdowns in blocking assignments and has made the unit highly vulnerable. For example, in games against teams like Duke and North Carolina, the line’s poor communication allowed opposing defenses to take control of the game, limiting the Wolfpack’s offensive output .
The Impact on the Run Game: No Room to Breathe
NC State’s inability to create running lanes for its backfield has been another significant issue. While running back Michael Allen has shown flashes of potential, the offensive line has not been able to open up holes or establish consistent push at the line of scrimmage. The inability to run the ball effectively makes the Wolfpack one-dimensional, forcing the offense into predictable passing situations. This lack of balance has made it easier for opposing defenses to focus on pressuring Armstrong and limiting the effectiveness of the pass game .
In the modern era of football, a balanced offensive attack is crucial for long-term success. Without the ability to run the ball and sustain drives, the Wolfpack offense has become stagnant, unable to control the clock or dictate the tempo of games. This imbalance is especially problematic in close contests where having a strong running game can make all the difference in securing a win.
The ACC’s Elite Defensive Lines: A Constant Challenge
The ACC is home to some of the best defensive lines in the country, and NC State’s offensive line has often been exposed against elite opponents. Teams like Clemson, Florida State, and Duke have all given the Wolfpack fits, constantly pressuring Armstrong and limiting the team’s offensive production. The struggles of NC State’s offensive line are amplified when they face such top-tier competition, with their deficiencies becoming even more glaring against some of the best defensive units in the country  .
The competition in the ACC is relentless, and for NC State to be competitive, their offensive line will need to rise to the challenge. Unfortunately, the current state of the offensive line leaves the Wolfpack at a significant disadvantage against these powerhouse programs, and it is clear that the team needs to make significant improvements if they hope to be a serious contender in the future.
Conclusion: What Needs to Change for NC State’s Offensive Line?
The NC State Wolfpack’s offensive line has been a major weakness throughout the 2024 season, and it is holding back an otherwise promising program. From recruiting deficiencies to poor communication, coaching, and technical struggles, the offensive line has failed to meet the standards necessary for success in the ACC. As long as these issues remain unaddressed, the Wolfpack will continue to find themselves on the wrong side of games, unable to compete with the conference’s elite teams.
For NC State to regain its footing, they must focus on several key areas: recruiting and developing elite offensive linemen, coaching up fundamentals and schemes to maximize the line’s potential, and improving cohesion among players. Until these issues are resolved, the Wolfpack’s offensive line will remain a glaring weakness, preventing the team from reaching its full potential. The pressure is now on the coaching staff and the players themselves to step up and turn things around, or else NC State’s offensive line will continue to hold them back in the 2024 season and beyond.
