Support Us Button Widget

Wolfpack football: Your guide to gameday

Wolfpack football season is upon us, and we have the need-to-know info about Carter-Finley Stadium + how to make the most out of gamedays.

The Wolfpack football team lines up for a play.

We’re gearing up for another season of Wolfpack football.

Photo provided by NC State Athletics

For some of us fall means one thing... the return of football. Need help planning for game day? Score the need-to-know info before the Wolfpack football team takes Carter-Finley Stadium.

Can’t-miss games

If you’re a true NC State fan, then you know every game is a can’t-miss game, but these promise to be next level.

  • Sept. 7 vs. Tennessee | Away, neutral site | The Duke’s Mayo Classic is back in the Queen City — watch these preseason ranked rivals face off in one of the Pack’s most exciting nonconference games of the year.
  • Nov. 2 vs. Stanford | Home | This year’s homecoming matchup has NC State against a new ACC school, and we’re hoping to take the Cardinal down.
  • Nov. 30 vs. UNC | Away | Though UNC leads the all-time football series against NC State 68–39–6, the Wolfpack has a three-win hot streak. The trek to Chapel Hill is worth it for this century-old rivalry.

Browse the full schedule, including the season opener on Thursday, Aug. 29 against Western Carolina.

Know before you go

Have tickets to watch the Pack in person? Before you put on your red-and-white, there are a couple need-to-knows about Carter-Finley.

  • Stadium updates | Carter-Finley is looking sparkly. The stadium has been power washed over the course of three months, new goalposts have been installed, and graphics are placed throughout the stadium honoring Pack football alums.
  • Parking | Review the parking situation ahead of time to get in and out as fast as possible.
  • Rules | Familiarize yourself with important policies, including the stadium’s clear bag rules, fan conduct, and more using the A through Z FAQ.
  • Concessions | New food options include hot honey fried chicken sandwiches, new grill carts, specialty barbecue, and hot pressed sandwiches. Pro tip: Carter-Finley is cashless, so plan in advance.

Players to root for

Here’s a new face you’ll hear about. QB Grayson McCall transferred to NC State after four years at Coastal Carolina where he threw for 10,005 yards in 42 games for the Chanticleers. Pressure’s on for McCall after NC State’s quarterback shuffles last season, but we’ve got a good feeling about him.

Returning for the Wolfpack is star receiver KC Concepcion. The sophomore made a big splash in 2023 with 320 yards and an NC State freshmen record for receiving 10 touchdowns, fifth overall in a single season. Pro tip: Keep an eye on this budding receiver — we’re hopeful he’ll continue taking things up a notch.

Where to watch

Here are spots where you’re sure to be part of the Pack.

  • Mitch’s Tavern: This has been an essential watering hole for NC State students + fans since the ‘70s and is a prime spot for gameday.
  • Players Retreat: With a large outdoor and indoor seating area, good food, and plenty of beers on tap, this is a top spot for Wolfpack football viewing.
  • Sports & Social: This place has everything: a 42-foot media wall, arcade games, and top-notch food + bev. Book your table in advance for a prime viewing spot.
More from RALtoday
This list of volunteer opportunities in Raleigh includes everything from becoming a park guide to fostering kittens — keep reading to find an org you’re passionate about.
The 16th annual edition of Small Business Saturday falls on November 29 — the perfect time to help you add a local sparkle into your holiday shopping.
“Wicked: For Good” hits theaters Friday, Nov. 21. Here’s how we’d spend one short day in Oak City like Elphaba + Glinda.
We asked this local performer about his favorite venues, plays, and the best barbecue in North Carolina.
The 2024 holiday season is officially among us, and Oak City isn’t short on festive experiences. Grab your calendar and check out these experiences filled with tons of holiday cheer.
After its March 2025 closure, a new team with ties to the former ownership group of 42nd Street Oyster Bar will reopen the Raleigh staple as early as February 2026. Read up on readers’ memories from this local gem.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Sippin’ Santa at Wye Hill — AKA the tropical holiday event of the year — is back through Dec. 28.
Whether you’re shortening on time or need to impress the in-laws, our com-pie-lation of local bakeries will help you find the perfect sweet treat.
Get ready to dash for drumsticks — there are seven turkey trots to get you up and moving on Thanksgiving Day around the City of Oaks.
Take the stress out of prepping and planning on Thanksgiving with these 13 restaurants + eateries offering takeout and dine-in seasonal feasts.