Nc State Vs Virginia Tech Wrestling Match Preview

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The North Carolina State University (NC State) wrestling team is set to face off against the Virginia Tech Hokies in a highly anticipated matchup. As two of the top programs in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), this dual meet is expected to be a thrilling contest with significant implications for the conference standings.

NC State, currently ranked 10th in the country, boasts a talented roster led by several wrestlers with national rankings. The Wolfpack has been on a tear lately, winning four of their last five dual meets, including a convincing 24-9 victory over then-No. 16 Pittsburgh. Led by head coach Pat Popolizio, NC State is looking to continue their winning ways and solidify their position as one of the top teams in the ACC.

On the other hand, Virginia Tech, ranked 12th in the nation, has also been impressive this season. The Hokies have won three of their last four dual meets, including a 20-15 win over then-No. 15 North Carolina. With a strong lineup featuring several nationally-ranked wrestlers, Virginia Tech is poised to give NC State a run for their money.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. 125 lbs: Jakob Camacho (NC State) vs. Collin Gerardi (Virginia Tech)

   * Camacho, a sophomore, is currently ranked 11th in the country and has been a bright spot for the Wolfpack this season. * Gerardi, a junior, is ranked 15th and has been a consistent performer for the Hokies.

2. 141 lbs: Tariq Wilson (NC State) vs. Tomasso Squillace (Virginia Tech)

   * Wilson, a senior, is ranked 10th and has been a leader for NC State this season. * Squillace, a sophomore, is ranked 18th and has shown significant improvement throughout the year.

3. 165 lbs: Daniel Bullard (NC State) vs. Mekhi Lewis (Virginia Tech)

   * Bullard, a junior, is ranked 12th and has been a key contributor to NC State's success. * Lewis, a junior, is ranked 5th and is one of the top wrestlers in the country at 165 lbs.

Team Strengths and Weaknesses

NC State's strengths lie in their depth and balance across the lineup. The Wolfpack has several nationally-ranked wrestlers, including Camacho, Wilson, and Bullard, who have been consistent performers throughout the season. Additionally, NC State's lower weights have been a strong point, with several wrestlers competing at a high level.

On the other hand, Virginia Tech's strength lies in their upper weights, where they have several nationally-ranked wrestlers, including Lewis and heavyweight Chris Weiler. The Hokies have also shown significant improvement in their lower weights, with wrestlers like Gerardi and Squillace stepping up their game.

However, both teams have weaknesses that could be exposed during the dual meet. NC State has struggled at times with consistency, particularly in their middle weights. Virginia Tech, on the other hand, has had issues with injuries and lineup depth, which could impact their performance.

Prediction and Outlook

This dual meet is expected to be a closely contested affair, with several matches going down to the wire. NC State's depth and balance will be tested by Virginia Tech's strong upper weights and improving lower weights.

Prediction: NC State wins 20-15

The Wolfpack's consistency and depth will ultimately prove to be too much for the Hokies, but Virginia Tech will push them to the limit. This dual meet will have significant implications for the ACC standings and will be an exciting contest for wrestling fans.

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