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NC State struggles with special teams performance ahead of 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 5:36 PM

Last updated Aug 14, 2026

NC State struggles with special teams performance ahead of 2026 season
Summary

NC State's special teams unit faced significant challenges during the 2025 season, ranking No. 103 overall according to SP+. The team attempted only nine field goals, the fewest among FBS teams, as changes in strategy limited opportunities for kicker Kanoah Vinesett. Coverage issues also marred the unit, allowing average yardage in punt and kickoff returns to rank among the worst nationally. With the departure of kickoff specialist Charlie Birtwistle, Nick Konieczynski is expected to step up in that role, as the team seeks to make improvements for the upcoming season.

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By the Numbers
  • •NC State ranked No. 103 in special teams for 2025 season.
  • •Team attempted only nine field goals, one of the lowest in FBS.
  • •Kanoah Vinesett returned to kicking despite limited attempts.
  • •Poor kick coverage ranked 122nd in average yards allowed per punt return.
  • •Nick Konieczynski will replace departed specialist Charlie Birtwistle.
Latest Updates
  • 5:36 PMYahoo Sports — What should we expect from NC State’s special teams in 2026?
What they're saying
"

NC State’s special teams unit was not good in 2025, in a variety of different ways, which is extra unhelpful. SP+ ranked the unit at No. 103 overall last season, but there’s really no need for an exacting assessment here. That group was not good enough. It was a strange year in that NC State […]

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