ESPN’s SP+ predictive metrics gave its outlook for a matchup of two ACC squads looking to make their claim as true conference contenders.

SP+ is predicting a 30-23 Louisville win in its game against NC State, which covers the 3-point spread in favor of the Cardinals.

Under new head coach and alum Jeff Brohm, Louisville has gotten out to a fast start this season.

The Cardinals utilized a second-half rally to take down Georgia Tech in Atlanta to open the season, and they followed that up with a convincing with over Murray State. Then, Brohm’s squad edged Indiana in a 21-14 affair before dropping 56 points on Boston College last week.

Purdue transfer Jack Plummer — who followed Brohm from West Lafayette after a one-year pitstop at Cal — has been incredibly efficient at quarterback, and weapons like receiver Jamari Thrash and running back Jawhar Jordan are beginning to become household names in the ACC.

Luckily for the Wolfpack, they have a stout defense that can combat that potent UL offensive attack. Veteran linebacker Payton Wilson leads an experienced unit, but the reunion of former Virginia quarterback Brennan Armstrong and offensive coordinator Bradlee Anae on the other side of the ball has not gone quite to plan so far.

NC State struggled on offense in a 24-14 win over UConn to open the season, and then Notre Dame ran away with the Week 2 matchup. A 24-21 win over Virginia last week was too close for comfort in the eyes of NC State fans, and Armstrong will need to play his best game of the season if his Wolfpack are to stand a chance in this one.

The game between Louisville and NC State will take place on Friday at 7:00 p.m. ET on ESPN.