Sat Sep 07 23:33:20 UTC 2024: ## Tennessee Dominates NC State in Duke’s Mayo Classic
**CHARLOTTE, NC** – The Tennessee Volunteers made a resounding statement in their 51-10 victory over the North Carolina State Wolfpack in the Duke’s Mayo Classic on Saturday night.
Redshirt freshman quarterback Nico Iamaleava led the offensive charge, racking up 276 total yards and three touchdowns. He completed 16 of 23 passes for 211 yards and threw touchdowns to Miles Kitselman and Holden Staes. Iamaleava also rushed for 65 yards, including a 31-yard touchdown.
The Volunteers’ defense was equally impressive, holding NC State to a mere 143 total yards and forcing three turnovers. The highlight of the defensive performance was a game-changing 85-yard interception return for a touchdown by former walk-on safety Will Brooks.
Tennessee’s offense thrived, scoring on eight of their eleven possessions, showcasing the impressive depth of their tight end room. Running back Dylan Sampson powered the ground game, rushing for 132 yards and two touchdowns.
NC State, on the other hand, struggled mightily, managing only 27 yards of offense in the second half and turning the ball over three times. Their only touchdown came on a pick-six by Tennessee.
Coach Josh Heupel praised Iamaleava’s resilience and the team’s overall performance, highlighting the “elite” defensive effort. Meanwhile, NC State coach Dave Doeren expressed disappointment with his team’s performance and vowed to make adjustments moving forward.
This dominant victory propels Tennessee into the national spotlight, with a strong possibility of rising into the Top 10 rankings. NC State, on the other hand, will likely see their Top 25 ranking disappear after consecutive underwhelming performances.
The Volunteers will look to continue their winning ways next week as they host Kent State, while NC State returns home to face Louisiana Tech.
First Piper 