N.C. State and UNC suffer disappointing losses in Triangle football

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 20, 2026, 11:05 AM

Last updated Sep 20, 2026

N.C. State and UNC suffer disappointing losses in Triangle football

Summary

N.C. State fell to Vanderbilt 35-31 on September 19, 2026, after a last-second fumble by quarterback CJ Bailey. With just six seconds remaining, N.C. State squandered a 31-28 lead when they opted for a safety instead of running out the clock. Meanwhile, UNC lost to Clemson after leading 20-15 late in the game, allowing two touchdowns following a weather delay. Coach Bill Belichick faced scrutiny post-game as calls for his dismissal mounted. Duke recorded a win against Stanford earlier, contrasting the struggles of both in-state rivals.

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By the Numbers

•N.C. State led 31-28 before a fumble allowed Vanderbilt to win.
•UNC led 20-15 but lost after giving up two late touchdowns.
•Duke remains the standout team in the Triangle with a recent win.
•Calls for N.C. State's coach Dave Doeren and UNC's Bill Belichick to be fired are increasing.
•Both teams' disappointing performances could influence their season outlook.

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