NC State linebacker Payton Wilson doesn’t think UNC quarterback Drake Maye should have apologized for his jab at NC State earlier this week.

While speaking with reporters on Tuesday night, Maye implied NC State fans only exist because they “can’t get into Carolina.” The joke was soon followed by an apology from Maye on Twitter.

Asked about the incident on Wednesday, Wilson said Maye shouldn’t have needed to apologize.

“It’s a hell of a rivalry. It’s been going on for who knows how long,” Wilson said Wednesday, via the USA Today Network. “I don’t think the kid should have to apologize for anything he said. Stuff like that is said all the time. We hear it all the time. It’s part of the game and part of UNC vs. NC State.”

North Carolina holds the all-time series record over the Wolfpack, but NC State has enjoyed the most success in recent years. The Wolfpack won last year’s meeting and have captured 4 of the last 6 games in this rivalry.

Both North Carolina and NC State enter this week with a 3-0 record.

UNC will host NC State on Nov. 25.