NC State faces Cal-Berkeley for the first time in program history on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. Eastern, and both need a win to move out of last place in the league standings.

The Wolfpack (3-4, 0-3 ACC) failed to live up to expectations in almost every phase of the game. The goal is to salvage the rest of the season and spoil Cal’s homecoming celebrations.

Meanwhile, the Golden Bears (3-3, 0-3 ACC) played better than expected despite their record, holding steady against Florida State and Pitt. However, its defense collapsed against Miami, costing Cal a double-digit win. The three defeats resulted in a total of eight points.

NC State will again rely on a number of younger players with starters sidelined due to injury, but many have impressed. Linebacker Kamal Bonner started against Syracuse and contributed nine tackles.

Running back Hollywood Smothers said the team is confident in its depth.

“We are blessed with depth. A lot of programs want things like that, and I feel like every position we have, one through three, can go on the field and play for us,” Smothers said. “Young guys, they stayed prepared, stayed within the guidelines and were willing to step up.”

Cal’s secondary poses a challenge for the Wolfpack offense, leading the country with 13 interceptions. Defensive back Nohl Williams ranks No. 1 with six interceptions. Quarterback CJ Bailey easily took over the starting position for NC State, but still has problems with turnovers. Bailey threw four interceptions in six games played. He must make smart decisions to avoid a third straight loss and the worst start in ACC play in 10 years.

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Wolfpack takes the first lead

Wide receiver KC Concepcion scored a 2-yard touchdown to give NC State a 10-7 lead. Concepcion’s touchdown came after the defense forced a fumble and Justin Joly caught a 31-yard pass on fourth down. Joly’s reception moved the Wolfpack to the Bears’ 1-yard line.

NC State joins the board

Kicker Kanoah Vinesett hit a 27-yard field goal, cutting NC State’s deficit to four points. Vinesett’s kick capped a 12-play, 56-yard drive.

Cal scores on the first drive

The Bears scored a 49-yard touchdown to take a 7-0 lead on their first drive of the game. Jaivian Thomas ran through defenders at the line of scrimmage and scored on Cal’s first rushing play of the game.

Cisse is expected to return

Cornerback Brandon Cisse was declared available for the game. He missed two games due to an undisclosed injury. Cisse’s left forearm was in a cast two weeks ago and a brace last week.

Waters won’t play

Running back Jordan Waters will not play for NC State due to illness. He started all seven games for the Pack.

Jayden Ott is unavailable for the Bears

Star running back Jaydn Ott will not play for Cal, ESPN reported Saturday. This will be the second straight game without the former All-Pac-12 honoree. He finished the 2023 season with 1,315 rushing yards.

He contributed 135 yards rushing and three touchdowns in five games. Ott added 115 receiving yards and a score.

The Wolfpack ranks 73rd in rushing defense and allows 147.1 yards per game, but not having to deal with Ott could improve NC State’s chances of getting a win.