NC State quarterback CJ Bailey said Wednesday he was trying to run out the clock and took responsibility for his fumble on an intentional-safety play against Vanderbilt. The Commodores recovered in the end zone for the winning touchdown with one second left in a 35-31 loss.
NC State led by three with six seconds left and faced fourth down at its own 5-yard line when coach Dave Doeren called for Bailey to take a safety and run down the clock. Doeren said Bailey was supposed to roll, avoid a tackle and protect the ball, not try to make a play. Bailey said they had practiced the play, but never in that situation.
Bailey threw for three touchdowns and totaled 310 yards of offense in the game. NC State, now 1-2, is preparing for a Week 4 matchup with App State; Bailey said Doeren and his teammates have his back.
