Each day this week, we'll take a look at different aspects of what Homecoming means at NC State. As we count down to Saturday, we'll highlight new features generated by members of the Wolfpack community at ncsu.edu.

In the Den of the Wolfpack

We're the Red and White from State, and we know we are the best. A hand behind our back

Wolfpack fans, are you ready? As Saturday's 1 p.m. kickoff approaches, there are plenty of activities for NC State fans and alumni to take part in this weekend.

Join us in celebrating the history and traditions that we hold dear – let your colors wave, and keep fighting for NC State!

Terminate the Terps

NC State head football coach Tom O'Brien (pictured below) will lead the Wolfpack into an ACC Atlantic Division showdown with the Maryland Terrapins.

Although the 'Pack isn't off to the start that players, coaches and fans envisioned before the season began, O'Brien told GoPack.com's Tim Peeler he hopes a second-half turnaround begins on Saturday, as NC State takes the field before a sellout crowd that will include former star wideout Jerricho Cotchery, now with the NFL's New York Jets.

The Wolfpack offense has been firing on all cylinders as of late – in October, QB Russell Wilson set an NCAA record for the longest interception-free streak (379 attempts) in Division I history.

Last week, RB Toney Baker continued to return to form in fine fashion, banging out 112 yards rushing on just 19 carries against Florida State.

Finally, sophomore George Bryan – the 'Pack's leading pass-catcher with 30 receptions this season – was recently named to the midseason "Watch List" for the 2009 John Mackey Award, given annually to the nation's top tight end.

Saturday's game should be a good one – eight of the last nine contests between NC State and Maryland have been decided by 10 points or less. Kickoff is at 1 p.m. | Read story at GoPack.com

He Loves a Parade

In the early '70s, the Homecoming celebrations that brought Cassius Williams (’69) back to campus were "great fun." So much so that the young alum would leave work on Thursday and stay in Raleigh through Sunday. “Homecoming back then was a big deal,” Williams said. “The parade on Hillsborough Street, parties, reconnecting with classmates, dances at McKimmon Center after Saturday night’s football game. It was an important celebration.”

Then it all stopped – and strangely, nobody seemed to know why. But ask how Homecoming returned, and you'll likely hear "because of Cassius Williams."

Open in Youtube | Video Transcript

She loves a parade, too

Cassius Williams isn't the only one excited about Friday's festivities. NC State women's basketball coach Kellie Harper (at left) is also a big fan, so much that she'll serve as the Grand Marshal of this year's 2009 Homecoming Parade.

"Who doesn't love a parade?" she said. "It's a time when everybody is excited about their university and what is going on. To rally around the football team – I love it.

"I love Homecoming parades – I've always thought they are great. And, I'm very honored to be leading the way out."

The 2009 parade will feature a lineup of NC State coaches and athletic teams, cheerleaders, the university dance team, The Power Sound of the South and other local bands, student-sponsored floats, vintage cars and more. Don’t miss the fun, spirit and giveaways, beginning around 6 p.m. Friday!