He's realized the Keatts is a winner and if he gives State an easy schedule now (when UVa and Duke are really strong) they have less of a chance of winning the ACC in the future since he can really give us tougher schedules later...after all remember in '18-19 State has the easiest schedule, so no favoritism.
Don't worry, this is all part of Swofford's master plan to screw NC State. I just know it!