O'Brien: No decision on starting halfback

N.C. State coach Tom O'Brien said today that no decision had been made on a starting halfback for the season-opener against Western Carolina.

"It's still a tight battle," O'Brien said of the logjam at the position. "We need to make that decision come Sunday. It's similar to the offensive line. It may not be really resolved until we get into game action."

Sophomore James Washington and junior Curtis Underwood Jr. likely have the edge and may get the brunt of the carries against WCU, but others in the mix could be true freshmen Mustafa Greene and Tony Creecy.

The Pack has not released a two-deep depth chart. O'Brien said a "handful" of freshmen likely would be in the two-deep but did not give any names.

One change in coaching duties on game days will have defensive coordinator Mike Archer on the sideline. Archer had been in the press box the last two years.
O'Brien said linebackers coach Jon Tenuta, who joined the staff this year, is more comfortable in the press box.

"Jon's never been on the sideline," O'Brien said. "Mike has been on the sideline before. This should be best for both."

-- Chip Alexander