It wasn’t the prettiest offensive showing, but NC State’s defense rose to the challenge to help push the Wolfpack past Northern Illinois 24-17 at Carter-Finley Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Here is what those who covered the game are saying about the Pack’s third win of the season. Ethan McDowell, The Wolfpacker — Column: NC State defense takes leap forward to overshadow offense’s step backA short run, a dropped snap, and an NC State passing attempt that sailed over receivers and defenders alike. The Wolfpack’s first possession of the second half was a microcosm of the program’s offensive str…