Can NC State Outscore the ACC to Overcome Defensive Shortcomings?
As we hit the mid-point of the January 2026 conference slate, the math for NC State is becoming crystal clear: we are a high-wire offensive act trying to stay ahead of our own defensive gravity. While the 113-point explosions are thrilling, the defensive trends are hard to ignore.
The "Model C" View: Top Tier (For Now)
Despite being 5th in the actual ACC standings with a 3-1 conference record, the Model C C-Score currently ranks NC State as the #3 team in the ACC and #19 nationally.
You can track the Wolfpack’s climb through the analytical ranks here: View This Week's Model C Rankings
The Statistical Paradox: Offensive Juggernaut vs. Defensive Liability
Elite Offensive Metrics (Top 5 Rankings)
- 3-Point Shooting: We lead the ACC with a 40.1% 3P%.
- Ball Security: The Pack averages only 10.0 turnovers per game.
- Scoring Volume: We currently rank 4th in the ACC in Scoring Offense, averaging 86.5 PPG.
Defensive Shortcomings (Bottom Half Rankings)
- Scoring Defense: State allows 71.2 PPG, ranking 13th in the ACC.
- Effective FG% Defense: We are 146th nationally in eFG% defense (50.4%).
- Personal Fouls: We rank 268th nationally with 19.1 personal fouls per game.
Where the Others Rank: The "North Carolina Four"
The contrast in styles across the state is fascinating. While Duke maintains top-tier balance, State remains the most extreme offensive outlier.
| School | ACC Record | Scoring Defense | C-Score Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duke | 5-0 | 65.9 (2nd) | #1 |
| NC State | 3-1 | 71.2 (13th) | #3 |
| UNC | 2-2 | 68.7 (7th) | #5 |
| Wake Forest | 1-3 | 75.4 (12th) | #8 |
The Verdict: Can the Pack Keep This Up?
As long as we shoot 40% from three and don't turn the ball over, we can outrun almost anyone in the country. However, the lack of perimeter resistance remains the team's Achilles' heel.
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