Each year Clemson and NC State bud heads in what is colloquially known as the Textile Bowl. The nickname comes from the fact that these two universities have the two largest textile programs in the world. The textile industry also has a strong historical significance in both of the school’s states. Clemson won the first meeting 24-0 and have held the upper hand in the rivalry ever since as they hold a 54-28-1 all-time lead in the series. The Wolfpack will look to narrow the gap this season when the Tigers come to Raleigh.
The Tar Heels and Wolfpack having been battling it out on the gridiron for over a century as these two teams first met in 1894 when North Carolina shutout NC State 44-0. The Tar Heels would dominate the rivalry for the next sixty years. However, things have been more even recently as the Wolfpack have won six of the last eight meetings.
The Wolfpack’s rivalry with the Demon Deacons stems from the schools’ proximity and the fact both schools are in the ACC Atlantic Division. NC State leads the all-time series between these two schools 62-38-6 and hopes to extend that lead this coming season.
Wolfpack Tailgate Guide
Atmosphere
Carter-Finley Stadium is located on the state fairgrounds of North Carolina meaning that there is plenty of space to tailgate and party before the game. You’ll find a great variety of food and beverages that are sure to make your mouth water at a Wolfpack tailgate as Carter-Finley Stadium’s location makes it a great place for tailgating.
No discussion about a North Carolina school tailgate can be had without discussing the famous BBQ. Inside Carter-Finley Stadium you can find the delicious cuisine of one the most famous BBQ restaurants in Raleigh. If you’re looking for something to eat during the game, make sure to grab some of their famous chopped pork.
One unique aspect of tailgating at NC State is that all season long fans compete for the right to be the tailgate champions. Throughout the season prizes are awarded for different tailgating challenges related to categories such as setup, food, and vehicle. These awards help to create the amazing tailgating atmosphere here as everyone is sure to up their game to win the honor of tailgate champion.
Before the game fans line the sidewalks in front of the Murphy Football Center to cheer on their team. Here you’ll get a chance to get up close and personal with the players and coaches before they take the field. The Walk of Champions is a must for any diehard Wolfpack fans.
The annual cookout is held before the NC State-UNC game and is a great time for students. If you’re NC State student there is no better way to get into the Wolfpack spirit than taking part in the Ram Roast.
One unique aspect of tailgating at NC State is that all season long fans compete for the right to be the tailgate champions. Throughout the season prizes are awarded for different tailgating challenges related to categories such as setup, food, and vehicle. These awards help to create a fantastic tailgating atmosphere as everyone is sure to up their game to win the honor of tailgate champion.
The large statue located outside of the Wendall H. Murphy Football Center features a waterfall and three wolves climb on rocks. Stop by and snap a picture with the Wolfpack Turf Statue during your trip to Raleigh.
Where to tailgate
Tailgate LotsIf you’re looking to set up your tailgate NC State has a wide variety of parking lot options to fit your needs. There are plenty of spaces around Carter-Finley Stadium to set up shop, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot whether its in the Red, Silver, Black, Pink,Yellow, or Orange Lots.
Motorhome LotThis lot specifically for larger vehicles is the perfect place to tailgate if you have your RV or want to see some of the more outlandish tailgate vehicles NC State has to offer.
Wolfpack Stadium Guide
In Game
NC State fans arrive at the game early to cheer on their team but rarely leave early as the fans here brim with passion and pride for their Wolfpack. The crowd here spends most of the game on their feet as everyone cheers on the team win or lose. No matter what section you are sitting in you are sure to have a lot of company as you cheer on the Wolfpack to victory.
Things start off at Carter-Finley Stadium with a bang as the fans are pumped and ready to cheer on their team to victory the moment the players charge through the “Wolf Den” shaped tunnel. As the team emerges in front of a packed house of cheering Wolfpack fans one can’t help but feel a chill run down their back. This incredible atmosphere lasts throughout the game and makes a Wolfpack football game a amazing experience.
The Sign of the Wolf is a great way to show off your Wolfpack pride and let everyone know who you root for. To show the Sign of the Wolf bring your ring finger, middle finger, and thumb together while sticking your index and pinky fingers up. Next time you're at an NC State game, make sure to show the Sign of the Wolf to meet fellow fans and make friends quickly.
After pre-game ceremonies, which feature the singing of the Alma Mater, National Anthem, and fight song the players finally enter the field. The players charge through a “Wolf Den” shaped tunnel as they emerge in front of a packed house of cheering Wolfpack fans. This entrance is sure to get any fan pumped and ready to cheer on the Wolfpack to victory.
Each week two players are given the honor of carrying the American and North Carolina flags onto the field. This tradition is a great way for the coaching staff to show the players they appreciate their hard work as well as a great way to honor the US and North Carolina.
NC State is home to one of the best marching bands in the country, as The Power Sound of the South is sure to put on a great show worth the price of admission all on its own. One of their most famous traditions is the spelling out of NC State in cursive, which really helps create that NC State game day feel.
Vaughn Towers houses the press box, luxury boxes, and club seats. If you’re looking for a premium in-game experience then make sure to get tickets in the Vaughn Towers.
The Baxter brings you an experience like no other bar, with its nerd-chic atmosphere and having up to 50 vintage and original arcade games, quality libations of various forms.
The Angus Barn Experience goes far beyond serving meals...We are in the memory business - making and creating unforgettable memories for you - our guest.
Char-Grill has the best burgers, fries and other favorites available at all of our fine locations. We also offer delicious milkshakes, ice-cold drinks and so much more!
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