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4d ago

NC State Fires Dave Doeren and Names Todd Goebbel Interim Coach

The move opens a national coaching search and raises recruiting and budget questions after Doeren said NIL pay gaps and the transfer portal cost the program key players.

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Oct 23, 2026; Stanford, California, USA; NC State Wolfpack head coach Dave Doeren instructs his players during warmups before the game against the Stanford Cardinal at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

Overview

  • The school dismissed Doeren on Saturday, Oct. 24, after a 31-28 loss at Stanford left NC State 3-4 for the season and prompted immediate staff changes.
  • Doeren held a virtual news conference saying he leaves "with no grudges," blamed NIL-driven pay gaps and the transfer portal for recent talent losses, and urged stronger institutional investment.
  • Running backs coach and special teams coordinator Todd Goebbel was promoted to interim head coach and the athletic department also fired general manager Andy Vaughn and defensive coordinator D.J. Eliot.
  • NC State has hired athletics director Boo Corrigan to lead a national search with advisers including former player Bill Cowher, while the university has publicly pledged increased financial support for the program.
  • The transition carries short-term risks for recruiting and roster stability, a reported $9.75 million buyout obligation for Doeren, strong student and fan interest in high-name candidates such as Philip Rivers, and questions about whether NC State will match rival programs' NIL resources.