Tennessee Vols Game against NC State Among the Most Anticipated Non-Conference Games of 2024 Season
In the upcoming fall season, the Tennessee Vols’ highly anticipated non-conference matchup against NC State on September 7 in Charlotte has been recognized as one of the most eagerly awaited games of the 2024 season by 247Sports. The ranking places this clash at No. 7 on the list of must-watch non-conference games.
According to 247Sports, the significance of this game stems from the fact that the losing team at Bank of America Stadium will likely see a decrease in the preseason hype. Both NC State and the Vols achieved nine victories in the 2023 season, but significant changes have occurred in their rosters. NC State has fortified its lineup with a top 10 recruiting class through the transfer portal, while Tennessee has entrusted its offensive reins to Nico Iamaleava, a former five-star signee who impressed with two touchdown passes in the Citrus Bowl victory over Iowa.
The Vols consider the game against NC State a crucial contest, as they aspire to contend for a spot in the 12-team College Football Playoff in 2024. A loss to NC State on September 7 would mean that Tennessee must navigate through the SEC schedule without a loss to secure a place in the expanded playoff. Tennessee can only afford two “quality” losses next fall to remain in playoff contention, and a defeat to an ACC opponent in a neutral site game would pose a significant challenge. This game marks a pivotal moment for true freshman Nico Iamaleava, set to be Tennessee’s starting quarterback in 2024, adding significance to the experience he gained in the Citrus Bowl against Iowa.
