Drake Maye apologizes for jab at NC State

North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye has apologized for making a “joke” at NC State’s expense on Tuesday evening.

While speaking with reporters about choosing to represent North Carolina, Maye suggested that NC State fans “just can’t get into Carolina.” 

Shortly after making that statement, he apologized on Twitter. Maye said he needs “to do a better job representing our program and this University.”

I made a remark today about NC State, and I want to apologize. I was answering a question about playing in-state and said something I shouldn’t have. I said it as a joke but it was inappropriate. I feel bad and need to do a better job representing our program and this University.

— Drake Maye (@DrakeMaye2) September 21, 2022

Here’s a video of the original joke:

#UNC QB Drake Maye: “I didn’t want to miss out on the home state… growing up in Carolina, you’re gonna be a Carolina fan. Some people may say State, but really people who go to State just can’t get into Carolina…” pic.twitter.com/z7zVHvFEbI

— Ross Martin (@RossMartin_IC) September 20, 2022

NC State fans will have to wait awhile before hosting Maye and the Tar Heels — the 2 programs won’t play in Raleigh until 2023. UNC hosts the Wolfpack later this fall.

Maye is off to a great start in his redshirt freshman season. He leads the ACC with 930 passing yards and 11 passing touchdowns through 3 games.

NC State won last year’s meeting with UNC, although Maye did not play a role in that game. UNC is 68-37-6 all-time against NC State.

North Carolina hosts Notre Dame in Week 4.