NC State Fires Head Coach Dave Doeren in $10.3 Million Shakeup

North Carolina State has fired head football coach Dave Doeren, the school announced Friday, following a 3-4 start to the 2026 season. The decision comes after a 31-28 loss to Stanford, concluding seven games into the current campaign.

Doeren, who still had three years remaining on his contract, is owed a substantial buyout of $10.3 million from the university. This move marks the end of his 14-year tenure at NC State, which began in 2012.

During his time as head coach, Doeren compiled a record of 98-73 overall and 52-57 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). He led the Wolfpack to 11 bowl appearances and secured 10 winning seasons. However, the current season has seen the team struggle, holding a 1-4 record against Power Four opponents.

Todd Goebbel, who currently serves as the Wolfpack’s running backs coach and special teams coordinator, has been appointed interim head coach for the remainder of the season. NC State Director of Athletics Boo Corrigan acknowledged Doeren's contributions in a statement, saying, “I want to thank Coach Doeren for his service and contributions to NC State, and for always representing the university with pride. I appreciate his leadership during his 14-year tenure and the passion he brought to this role. We wish Dave, Sara and his family the best in the future.”

Reports suggest that former NFL quarterback Phillip Rivers, an NC State alumnus, could be a candidate for the head coaching position next season, particularly with his son, Gunner, committed to play for the team. Rivers played 14 seasons in the NFL, earning eight Pro Bowl selections.