Veteran Offensive Linemen Anchor NC State's Push for Improved Ground Game

As the 2025 college football season approaches, the NC State Wolfpack are focused on revamping their rushing offense. The team's offensive line, which ranked 83rd nationally and 9th in the ACC in rushing yards per game last season, has undergone some significant changes.

The Wolfpack have lost three starters from their offensive line to the NFL, but they are fortunate to have two experienced players returning. Tackle Jaccarius Peak and guard Anthony Carter Jr. will anchor the left side of the line, providing a solid foundation for the team's ground game.

"Without us [the offensive line], the offense can't start," Peak said. "Whenever great plays and positive plays happen, we just use us five and motivate each other and celebrate with each other, knowing that because of us, that play happened."

Offensive line coach Garett Tujague has several options to fill the remaining spots on the line. Utah State transfer Teague Andersen is set to start at right tackle, while the right guard and center positions are still up for grabs. Tujague may opt to start true freshman Spike Sowells at center, with Purdue transfer Jalen Grant sliding over to right guard, or he could go with Grant at center and Val Erickson at right guard.

Regardless of the final lineup, the offensive linemen are determined to pave the way for a stronger rushing attack in 2025. "I love the mentality of the O line," Andersen said. "That's why I'm playing with just the mentality of knowing that we will be the first ones blamed and the last ones appreciated. That's what we live by."

If the Wolfpack can improve their rushing numbers from last season, it could have a significant impact on the team's overall offensive performance. With the experienced leadership of Peak and Carter, and the potential of the new additions, NC State's offensive line is poised to play a crucial role in the team's success this season.