No D.C. bowl OK for Pack

Many N.C. State fans were frustrated Monday when they learned the Wolfpack wouldn’t be able to be considered for any of the ACC’s bowl slots.

That rules the Wolfpack out of the EagleBank Bowl in Washington, D.C., which would have been an easy destination for fans to reach.

But coach Tom O’Brien didn’t seem the least bit flustered during his weekly radio show or afterward, even though the EagleBank Bowl would have matched him against his alma mater, Navy.

O’Brien didn’t come out and say this, but there is one significant reason the Wolfpack would be better off if they can secure an at-large bowl bid elsewhere. The EagleBank Bowl, though it would be convenient for fans, is scheduled for Dec. 20.

There isn’t enough time on the calendar for N.C. State to hold its full allotment of 15 pre-bowl practices before that Dec. 20 game. O’Brien considers those pre-bowl practices vital.

He said Saturday that the extra practice associated with eight straight bowl appearances while he coached Boston College were pivotal in building his program.

“That all adds up and accumulates over the years,” O’Brien said.

N.C. State's postseason possibilities are the Hawaii (Dec. 24), Motor City (Dec. 26), Independence (Dec. 28), PapaJohns.com (Dec. 29) and Texas (Dec. 30) bowls. None would be as convenient for fans’ travel plans as the EagleBank Bowl. But all would provide the Wolfpack with more opportunities to practice.