NC State Loses on Improbable Vanderbilt Touchdown in Final Seconds
In Nashville, NC State quarterback CJ Bailey fumbled in the end zone while attempting an intentional safety in the final seconds, leading to a Vanderbilt recovery for a touchdown and an improbable 35-31 victory for the Commodores.
Miami Fort Lauderdale, FL, September 19, 2026 —
Nashville, TN – In a dramatic and unexpected turn of events, the NC State Wolfpack suffered a 35-31 defeat against the Vanderbilt Commodores in Nashville, thanks to a late-game fumble in the end zone that resulted in a game-winning touchdown for Vanderbilt.
The pivotal moment occurred in the closing seconds of the game. NC State quarterback CJ Bailey, attempting to execute an intentional safety, fumbled the ball in the end zone. Vanderbilt players recovered the fumbled ball for a touchdown, clinching the improbable victory.
The exact play call and the circumstances leading to the fumbled snap were not immediately detailed beyond the attempt to secure an intentional safety. The recovery by Vanderbilt sealed the win, leaving NC State with a narrow loss.
The final score stood at 35-31 in favor of Vanderbilt following the unusual sequence of events. The outcome marked a significant and unexpected finish to the contest.
Further details regarding the specific strategies employed by NC State in the final moments, the defensive alignment of Vanderbilt during the play, or player reactions were not immediately available.
Story summarized from the original created by By MARK LONG, Associated Press on www.local10.com, see more information here.
