NC State Makes Top 8 for QB Quinn Murphy
After receiving an offer during a recent camp, Quinn Murphy has included NC State in his Top 8 schools as he narrows down his choices for 2026. Murphy, a quarterback from Argyle (Tex.) Liberty Christian, is one of several intriguing prospects for NC State. Alongside NC State, his Top 8 includes Baylor, Arkansas, Missouri, SMU, Minnesota, Miami, and Oklahoma State.
NC State quarterbacks coach Kurt Roper has been recruiting Murphy for a while and extended an offer during Murphy’s unofficial visit on June 7. Murphy has built a strong relationship with Roper, appreciating his honesty and experience. He expressed admiration for Roper’s success in developing quarterbacks and his approachable nature.
Last season, Murphy excelled as a sophomore at Austin (Tex.) Austin Regents High, passing for over 3,000 yards with 52 touchdowns and just eight interceptions. He also contributed 242 rushing yards and five touchdowns on 54 carries.
Murphy’s visit to Raleigh left a strong impression on him. He praised the beautiful campus, facilities, and the welcoming nature of the staff and players. The Texas native is currently rated as the No. 427 overall player and No. 36 quarterback by the 247Sports Composite Rankings. Though Murphy hasn’t announced a timeline for his decision, he remains a key prospect to watch for NC State.
The ACC Officially Expands with SMU, Stanford, and Cal
Today, the ACC welcomed SMU, Stanford, and Cal into its ranks. SMU becomes an official league member as of July 1, while Stanford and Cal will be fully onboard by August 2.
Is adding these schools a good idea? Probably not. Will it significantly impact the league’s future? Likely not.
However, we now have new sports friends, which is invaluable.
Cal and Stanford’s revenue sports have struggled lately, contributing to their exclusion in the last expansion round. That might change eventually, though Cal basketball seems particularly bleak. Despite their recent challenges, these additions offer new venues for fans to explore, which is a notable silver lining.
SMU, while lacking in accomplishment or merit, compensates with substantial oil money. The Mustangs bring the strongest football program of the trio, making them a valuable addition. Plus, if we’re friendly, maybe they’ll share some of that oil wealth.
As a playful welcome, here are the new ACC members as Simpsons characters:
– California: Ned Flanders’ beatnik parents
– SMU: Crazy Texas businessman
– Stanford: Homer Simpson as John Elway
