The Kansas State Wildcats (8-4) are set to clash with the North Carolina State Wolfpack (9-3) in a highly anticipated showdown at the Camping World Stadium. With both teams boasting impressive records and looking to cap off their seasons with a victory, this matchup promises to be a battle of wills on the gridiron. Let’s dive into our NC State vs. Kansas State predictions and picks for the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
NC State vs. Kansas State Odds
- Moneyline: NC State +130 (DraftKings) / Kansas State -155 (DraftKings)
- Spread: Kansas State -3.5 (BetMGM)
- Total: 46.5 / Over -105 (BetMGM) / Under -115 (BetMGM)
Game Info
- Date: Thursday, Dec. 28
- Time: 05:45 PM ET
- Location: Camping World Stadium – Orlando, FL
- TV: ESPN
North Carolina State Wolfpack Betting Trends
- On the road, North Carolina State Wolfpack are 4 and 1 this season.
- Against the spread this season, North Carolina State Wolfpack are 6 and 5.
- Against the spread on the road, North Carolina State Wolfpack are 2 and 3.
Kansas State Wildcats Betting Trends
- At home, Kansas State Wildcats are 6 and 1 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Kansas State Wildcats are 8 and 4.
- Against the spread at home, Kansas State Wildcats are 6 and 1.
NC State vs. Kansas State Predictions
The Kansas State Wildcats enter the game with a solid 8-4 record, having displayed a potent offense throughout the season, racking up 454 points. They’re coming off a win and will be looking to leverage their home-field advantage. The Wildcats have been particularly strong at home, with a 6-1 record, and their offense is expected to be led by the dynamic play of QB Avery Johnson, who has stepped up admirably in place of the transferring Will Howard. Johnson’s dual-threat capabilities will be a key factor against the Wolfpack’s defense.
On the other side, the North Carolina State Wolfpack, with a 9-3 record, have shown resilience and consistency, especially on the defensive side, allowing only 242 points against. The Wolfpack are on a five-game winning streak, which speaks volumes about their current form and momentum. Their offense, while not as explosive as the Wildcats’, has been efficient, with QB Brennan Armstrong at the helm. Armstrong’s experience and decision-making will be crucial in navigating through the Wildcats’ defense.
NC State vs. Kansas State Picks
The North Carolina State Wolfpack have demonstrated a strong defensive performance throughout the season, which is likely to challenge the high-scoring offense of the Kansas State Wildcats. With the spread set at -3.5 in favor of Kansas State, the Wolfpack’s defense, which has allowed only 242 points against, could keep the game closer than the spread suggests. Additionally, the Wolfpack’s recent form, with a five-game winning streak, indicates they have the momentum and resilience to cover the spread. North Carolina State’s ability to perform under pressure, especially on the road with a 4-1 record, further supports the decision to pick them against the spread.
Considering these factors, along with the Wolfpack’s strong finish to the season, picking North Carolina State against the spread is a calculated choice backed by their defensive prowess and recent winning trend.
The Pick: North Carolina State +3.5 (BetMGM)
