That was a hard-learned lesson in last week's 23-17 loss at Clemson, when Louisville (5-2, 3-2 Atlantic Coast Conference) gave up touchdowns on a 72-yard punt return and an end-zone fumble. Penalties also doomed the Cardinals, who aim not to beat themselves against the Wolfpack (4-3, 0-3).
Saturday's game marks the first meeting between the schools since N.C. State beat Louisville 31-24 in the 2011 Belk Bowl for their first victory in four series meetings. The Cardinals have won back-to-back bowls since and can become eligible for a fourth straight postseason with a victory.
North Carolina State meanwhile aims to end a three-game losing streak with its first ACC win.