CJ Bailey’s End-Zone Fumble Hands Vanderbilt a 35-31 Win

Bailey has accepted responsibility for the error as NC State focuses on regrouping for Saturday’s game at Appalachian State.

Overview

The play that decided the game Saturday saw NC State quarterback CJ Bailey fumble in the end zone and Vanderbilt recover for a game-winning touchdown, producing a 35-31 final score.
Coach Dave Doeren said the call was to burn time and take a safety rather than risk a turnover, but Bailey instead ran and was stripped in the end zone.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Bailey said he was trying to run out the clock, called it his first time in that situation and said he takes responsibility for the mistake.
Teammates rallied around Bailey after the play, with lineman Teague Andersen giving immediate support and the program relaying encouragement from former Wolfpack and NFL figures.
A referee review that added one second to the clock amplified the finish and the result has intensified scrutiny of late-game situational choices while shaping NC State’s short-term outlook after the loss left the team 1-2.