(4%) NC STATE. Both teams are off losses. However, I expect NC State's blowout loss to Clemson to be easier to “bounce back” from than Northern Illinois' tight loss to Buffalo. Off an upset win over Notre Dame, the Huskies were undefeated and had cracked the top 25. They lost an OT heartbreaker though, a game which they led 14-3 at halftime, which crushed any dreams they might have had of an undefeated season. While the Huskies are a solid and very experienced team, that's still going to be difficult to immediately respond to. On the other hand, the Wolfpack gave up 59 points in their loss to Clemson, the most they'd allowed in more than a decade. Even though, they're dealing with some adversity, they should have no problem getting motivated and staying focused for this week's game. QB Grayson McCall (currently questionable) was day-to-day but didn't play against Clemson. With another week to recover, I like his chances of returning. However, I'm also fine with Bailey who now has his feet wet. Of course, a home game against a MAC opponent is preferable to a road game at Death Valley, where Bailey made his first start. It should also be mentioned that NC State coach Dave Doeren was previously a coach at NIU. He's been here 12 years now but this is his first shot at his former team. I expect him to have his team ready and for them to bounce back with a double-digit victory.