Sports · October 24, 2026
NC State fires Dave Doeren: Wolfpack coach out amid 14th season after brutal loss to Stanford
NC State has fired head football coach Dave Doeren after 14 seasons following a 31-28 loss to Stanford. Doeren leaves as the program's winningest coach with 98 victories and 11 bowl appearances. The Wolfpack started the 2026 season 3-4, including an 0-4 record against Power Four opponents other than Louisville. Running backs coach and special teams coordinator Todd Goebbel has been named interim head coach for the remainder of the season. The university announced the decision on Saturday, one day after the loss to Stanford.
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Read the original coverage
- CBS SportsSports network
NC State fires Dave Doeren: Wolfpack coach out amid 14th season after brutal loss to Stanford
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Reported by multiple outlets
- Dave Doeren has been fired by NC State in his 14th season.
- The decision followed a 31-28 loss to Stanford.
- NC State holds a 3-4 record for the 2026 season.
- Todd Goebbel will serve as the interim head coach.
- Doeren is the winningest coach in program history with 98 wins.
Reported by only some outlets
- Doeren is owed more than $10 million (specifically $10.3 million) in buyout money.
- NC State has gone 0-4 against Power Four opponents this season, with the exception of Louisville.
- Maryland coach Mike Locksley was also fired earlier the same week.
- Philip Rivers' son, Gunner, is committed to play for NC State.
Confirmed
- NC State fired Dave Doeren on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
- Doeren finished his tenure with 98 wins and 11 bowl trips.
- Todd Goebbel is the interim head coach.
- NC State lost to Stanford 31-28 the night before the firing.
Reported
- Philip Rivers is expected to be in the mix for the head coaching job. (ESPN's Pete Thamel)
- NC State invested heavily to retain quarterback CJ Bailey during the previous offseason. (CBS Sports)
Rumor
- Philip Rivers could be the primary target because his son is committed to the program. (New York Post citing social media/analyst speculation)
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