North Carolina State put on a commanding performance to defeat Memphis 31-7 in the Gasparilla Bowl on Friday in Tampa. QB CJ Bailey was the star for the Wolfpack, throwing for two touchdowns and rushing for another, while Jayden Scott contributed 108 rushing yards on 19 carries, helping NC State finish the season on a three-game winning streak.
The Wolfpack set the tone early with a 75-yard opening drive, capped by Bailey’s 14-yard touchdown run. Soon after, Bailey connected with Wesley Grimes on a 31-yard touchdown pass following a 67-yard drive. NC State’s defense also made a crucial impact when Caden Fordham returned an interception 55 yards to set up Will Wilson’s 1-yard touchdown run. Kanoah Vinesett added a 51-yard field goal to give NC State a 24-0 lead.
Memphis managed a 75-yard drive late in the first half, with Brendon Lewis finding Jamari Hawkins for a 28-yard touchdown, but NC State responded immediately with a 40-yard scoring pass from Bailey to Teddy Hoffmann. Remarkably, all points were scored in the first half, marking the highest-scoring half in Gasparilla Bowl history.
Memphis, which had playoff aspirations early in the season, struggled in the final stretch, losing its last four games. The Tigers played under interim coach Reggie Howard after Ryan Silverfield left for Arkansas. Lewis, who rushed for 51 yards, threw for 106 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Despite outgaining Memphis 337-303, NC State’s defense ensured the Tigers turned the ball over on downs twice in the fourth quarter, sealing the game.
NC State overcame the absence of running back Hollywood Smothers, who had entered the transfer portal late in the week, demonstrating depth and efficiency. With this win, the Wolfpack cap off a successful season while Memphis looks to regroup after a disappointing finish.
