How It Works
NC State Wolfpack vs Kansas State Wildcats — Pop-Tarts Bowl, December 28, 2023
19–28BOWL
About This Game
Kansas State's true freshman Avery Johnson made an impressive debut, orchestrating an early onslaught alongside running back DJ Giddens, whose 151 yards and two touchdowns left NC State reeling in the first half. The Wildcats raced to a commanding lead, establishing early control of the Pop-Tarts Bowl.
Yet NC State's explosive potential—evidenced by their 1,007 total yards across 22 drives—couldn't be contained forever. Quarterback Brennan Armstrong powered a second-half rally, with his 121 rushing yards and dynamic play-calling keeping the Wolfpack within striking distance. The turning point came in the third quarter when Trent Pennix executed a perfectly disguised fake-punt play, racing 60 yards for a touchdown to pull NC State within two points. Momentum had shifted entirely.
Kansas State's response was decisive. Johnson led a methodical 15-play, 72-yard touchdown drive in the fourth quarter that ultimately decided the contest. The Wildcats' poise down the stretch—particularly Johnson's ability to manage the game as a true freshman—proved the difference in a thrilling bowl matchup. This competitive battle is now preserved as a Gameprint, offering custom wall art that visualizes every drive.
Game highlights: DJ Giddens' dominant first-half performance (151 yards, 2 TDs), Avery Johnson's poised freshman debut (2 TDs passing), NC State's second-half comeback led by Brennan Armstrong, Trent Pennix's explosive 60-yard fake-punt TD, Kansas State's clutch fourth-quarter drive sealing the bowl victory
Summary written with AI from the official play-by-play.
A Gift for Every Game
The best gifts for college football fans aren’t generic team merch — they’re personal. A Gameprint of NC State Wolfpack vs Kansas State Wildcats captures a specific game that means something: a rivalry win, a season to remember, a night at the arena. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays.
Were you there? If you or a friend went to this game, a Gameprint turns that memory into a lasting keepsake — the exact game you watched live, every play on your wall. There’s a gift for every game you’ve ever been to.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did NC State Wolfpack play Kansas State Wildcats?
NC State Wolfpack played Kansas State Wildcats in the Pop-Tarts Bowl on December 28, 2023 at Camping World Stadium.
What was the final score of NC State Wolfpack vs Kansas State Wildcats?
The final score was NC State Wolfpack 19, Kansas State Wildcats 28.
What does the NC State Wolfpack vs Kansas State Wildcats Gameprint show?
Every drive — touchdowns, field goals, punts and turnovers — from the official play-by-play of this game, laid out in order from kickoff to the final whistle, in your choice of team colors.
Is this a good gift for a NC State Wolfpack or Kansas State Wildcats fan?
Yes — a Gameprint of NC State Wolfpack vs Kansas State Wildcats is a one-of-a-kind gift. Unlike generic team merchandise, it captures a specific game they actually care about. Popular for birthdays, graduations, Father’s Day, and holiday gifts.
Can I gift this to someone who was at the game?
Absolutely. If a friend or family member attended NC State Wolfpack vs Kansas State Wildcats, a Gameprint turns that memory into wall art — the actual plays from the game they watched live. Customize the colors to make it personal.
Sizes, framing, shipping and color options: see the Gameprints FAQ.
NC State vs Kansas State in numbers
- 0 lead changes
- 14-point largest lead (Kansas State)
- 14–0 run, the longest of the game (Kansas State)
- 22 drives
- 6 touchdown drives (NC State 2, Kansas State 4)
- 3 drives ended by a turnover or on downs (NC State 3, Kansas State 0)
- 90-yard touchdown drive, the longest of the game (Kansas State)
NC State never led.
Counted from the play-by-play behind this print — every drive on the poster is one of these plays.
