Dec 30, 2022; Charlotte, NC, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack helmets during the first half against the Maryland Terrapins in the 2022 Duke's Mayo Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Wolfpack Star Running Back Reacts to Wake Forest Win

Originally posted on NC State Wolfpack on SI
By Tucker Sennett | Last updated Sep 13, 2025 7:00 AM ET

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. -- North Carolina State moved to 3-0 with a 34-24 win over the Wake Forest Demon Deacons on Thursday at Allegacy Stadium. Once again, the Wolfpack proved it's a four-quarter game, coming back from a 14-0 deficit in the first quarter and dominating in the second half.

Running back Hollywood Smothers dominated for the second straight week on the ground. The sophomore didn't get in the end zone in the game, but he set a new career rushing record with 164 yards on 24 attempts. It was his third game with over 100 rushing yards out of his last seven appearances spanning back to the 2024 season.

Following the impressive performance, Smothers spoke to members of the media about his own performance and the early successes of the Wolfpack.

Watch Smothers' Press Conference here

Here is a partial transcript of Smothers' availability:

On feelings about recent success and noticing differences

Smothers: "It’s just the grit of this offense, the defense, the whole team. I think it’s the guys up front getting more comfortable and blocking their a****s off. It’s me just trusting the guys up front.

On adjustments to the mindset after falling behind early for the second week in a row

Smothers: "We’re family here. We believe in each other. We’re going to fight. We might bend, but won’t break. We believe in each other. We believe in the men next to us. We’re going to fight. We knew the game wasn’t over. We were behind last week... We’ve got a lot of grit and belief in each other. We came back and got the job done."

On working with sophomore quarterback CJ Bailey in the backfield

Smothers: "(Bailey) is one of my closest friends. He’s getting better game by game. He’s more comfortable than he was last year. He’s the man. He always had a voice. Now, he’s learning how to use it. Everybody knows C.J. can play. We’re going to go as far as 11 goes. He’s getting better game by game. We’re good in 11’s hands."

On the effect the comeback in the Virginia game had on the morale Thursday night

Smothers: "No doubt. We practice situations in practice. We’re more than prepared for the moment. We’ve got the playmakers. We’ve got the players. Players make plays, and that’s what we did tonight."

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This article first appeared on NC State Wolfpack on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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