Vanderbilt Stuns North Carolina State in Last-Minute Upset

Vanderbilt secures a shocking 35-31 win over North Carolina State with a last-second fumble recovery in Nashville.

September 20, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Nashville, Tennessee — Vanderbilt pulled off a stunning 35-31 victory against North Carolina State in a game that had fans on the edge of their seats until the final seconds.

The game took an unexpected turn when N.C. State quarterback CJ Bailey fumbled in the end zone while attempting to run out the clock, allowing Vanderbilt’s Cayden Daniels to recover the ball and score a touchdown. This improbable finish marked one of the most dramatic comebacks in recent college football history.

📄 POLICY WIRE WHITEPAPER PUBLISHED: PAKISTAN’S NATIONAL SECURITY POLICY PRIORITIES

👉 READ BY CLICKING HERE

Vanderbilt, now 3-0 on the season, overcame a 17-0 deficit in the first half to secure the win. The victory also marked the team’s largest comeback since defeating Ole Miss in 2012. N.C. State, who were aiming for their first road win against an SEC opponent since 1977, will look to regroup after the heartbreaking loss.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

Author

Editorial Desk

Policy Wire is your go-to editorial hub for insightful perspectives and informed analysis on pressing policy issues, both regionally and globally. Over the years, Policy Wire has collaborated with leading international news agencies—including AFP, AP, Reuters, and others—to provide fact-based reporting and nuanced commentary. With a commitment to clarity and credibility, we aim to bridge the gap between complex policy debates and public understanding, ensuring that our readers stay informed on the issues shaping the world today.