For N.C. State, Third Down Is Long

Here's a story from the Raleigh News & Observer about North Carolina State's struggles this season on third downs, both offensively and defensively.

The Wolfpack rank 111th nationally in third-down conversions at 28.1 percent (27 of 96). Maryland has fared respectably stopping opponents on third downs this season, which might be a surprise to some observers. Terps' opponents have a 33-percent success rate (33 of 99) on third downs this season. That ranks 32nd nationally among defenses.

On the other side of the ball, Maryland has converted 42 percent of its third downs this season (39 of 92), which ranks 43rd nationally, while North Carolina State has allowed its opponents to convert 43.4 percent of their third downs, 94th nationally.

For a complete listing of NCAA third-down conversion rates, you can go here for offenses and here for defenses.

Meantime, it doesn't appear that N.C. State is on the brink of any revolutionary solutions.

"We've got to make a few more throws," quarterback Russell Wilson told the N&O. "Players have to make a few more catches. We've got to run the ball a little bit better. And we'll get first downs. It's as simple as that."