New York, November 27, 2025
NC State’s punter pulled off a highly unusual play on November 22, 2025, recovering his own punt during a critical 4th & 17 situation in a game against Florida State, a sequence that gained national recognition for its rarity and game impact.
The Unpredictable Punt Recovery
Facing a challenging 4th & 17 near midfield, NC State opted to punt, a decision that normally concedes possession to Florida State. However, the punt took an unexpected turn when the ball struck Florida State player KJ Kirkland’s helmet as he tried to evade the landing area. This deflection redirected the ball backwards across the field, creating chaos. In an uncommon twist, the NC State punter quickly recovered the loose ball himself, a play that defied football conventions and added a significant momentum shift for the Wolfpack.
National Recognition and Impact
This extraordinary recovery was recognized widely, earning a place in ESPN’s Week 13 college football superlatives. It stood out among all games that week as a rare display of opportunism and quick reaction, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football where a single bounce can dramatically alter the course of a contest. For NC State, the recovery was not only a memorable highlight but also a pivotal moment in a tight matchup against Florida State.
Rarity and Relevance in College Football
Such a punt recovery is exceptionally rare in college football. Typically, punts are either caught or downed without incident, yet NC State’s play demonstrated how deflections and reflexes can create unexpected outcomes. Plays like this underscore the dynamic and often unpredictable elements that keep the sport compelling for players, coaches, and fans alike.
Context of the Game
The November 22 contest between NC State and Florida State was tightly contested, with both teams fighting for critical positioning late in the season. The successful recovery amid a difficult punting situation added a critical boost for NC State, illustrating how split-second plays can influence momentum and possibly outcomes in high-stakes college football games. This event has since become a notable highlight in the 2025 college football season’s Week 13 recap.
In a season where every play counts, NC State’s punter’s keen awareness and agility turned a potential routine punt into an unforgettable game-changing moment.