With NQS season fast approaching, both teams will be looking to post scores that can contribute toward their final rankings. Pittsburgh hasn’t qualified for regionals since 2018, but is currently in a position to break that streak. However, the Panthers have struggled in recent seasons to put up high scores early enough to allow for significant NQS improvement. Multiple teams below Pittsburgh in the rankings have higher season highs, so if the Panthers don’t start breaking 196 soon, they could find themselves in a similar situation again. Reaching that 196 mark will be the goal in Raleigh, especially since Pittsburgh ends the meet on its strongest event, beam.
N.C. State, meanwhile, hosted California last week and set a new season high. Unlike Pittsburgh, the Wolfpack has already broken 196 this season, solidifying its postseason outlook. N.C. State will look to continue its momentum and put up another potential counting score. Last week’s challenge came from hops on vault landings, but as the season progresses, sticking two or three of those vaults could provide a significant boost. Keep an eye on Ashley Knight, who had the highest score on floor last week and will be a key contributor on vault as well.
