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In a perfect world, N. C. State's new coaching staff and new quarterback would ease into the 2013 schedule against one of their weaker out-of-conference foes, but, according to the official athletic websites of the 2013 opponents, it appears that the opposite will be the case. Louisiana Tech, fresh off a 9-3 season that saw the Bulldogs lead the nation in scoring at over 50 points a game, will kickoff the season in Carter-Finley on August 31st.
Of course the Bulldogs, like the Pack, will be breaking in a new staff after Sonny Dykes bolted for Cal. Hopefully Holtz can do what he did to the South Florida program by the time August 31st rolls around.
Next up for the Pack will be FCS opponent Richmond on September 7th. The Spiders, fresh off an impressive 3-8 to 8-3 swing under up and comer Danny Rocco, finished tied for second in the CAA last year and were ranked in the top 20 in both the coaches and Sports Network polls. Rocco will be joined by a familiar face to Wolfpack fans; his nephew, Michael, is transferring from Virginia to play his senior season for the Spiders.
Central Michigan, a 38-24 loser in Carter-Finley in 2011, makes its return trip on September 14th. The date for the East Carolina game has yet to be announced, but, presumably, the in-state date with the Pirates will fall on the 21st.