Coach O'Brien: ACC Teleconference Before NC State vs. Maryland (11/4/09)

"It was certainly a difficult loss for our football team down in Tallahassee. We've come back this week with a renewed spirit and look forward to get back, and play Maryland this Saturday afternoon, because it seems like forever since we've had a home football game.

On Owen Spencer's yards per catch...

"He has certainly been our deep threat last year through this year. He does a great job getting open deep. He set a record here last year in yards per catch, and I think he is ahead of that record this year. We are going to continue to work hard to get him the ball. He's done a great job of getting open and making some big plays for us."

On the defense...

"We hope we get better. We're going in with the same starting line-up, which hasn't happened yet this season. It's a positive for us. We're still banged up and beat up, but hopefully we'll be able to contain Maryland a little bit. It's always scary when Friedgen has an off-week to prepare. Turner's a three-year starter and has done a great job for them. The've been getting a little better each week and their defense seems to be getting more comfortable with the blitz scheme they are employing. We're going to have to play a great game on Saturday to give us a chance to win."

On the players attitude at being at the bottom of the conference...

"I don't think they've really focused on where the are in the conference. I think they believe they have to win 1 game before you win two. That's what we're trying to do. There is no quit in these kids. They are excited about the game this week. They know they have been dealt a bad hand having 12 players out for the year, but the young kids are excited to play and make the most of it."