Goebbel Leads N.C. State After Doeren Departure

Todd Goebbel assumes interim head coaching duties at N.C. State following the Saturday dismissal of Dave Doeren. The change comes after the Wolfpack lost to Stanford, ending Doeren's 14-year tenure as the program's winningest coach.

Goebbel, who joined the staff in 2019 as running backs coach and special teams coordinator, now leads the team into its final five regular season games. The Wolfpack currently hold a 3-4 overall record and stand 1-3 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Saturday's matchup against California marks Goebbel's first game in charge.

Staff adjustments accompanied the head coaching change. Defensive coordinator DJ Eliot was also dismissed after the team allowed 31 points to a Stanford squad that entered the game ranked among the nation's worst offenses. Assistant Charlton Warren will handle defensive playcalling for the remainder of the season, while special teams analyst Zac Roper assumes Goebbel's previous responsibilities.

Quarterback CJ Bailey described receiving the news from Doeren directly. "It was kind of a shocker to me, thinking it wouldn't happen during the season and things like that," Bailey said. He noted that the focus quickly shifted to identifying the next positive step for the team.

Goebbel stated he consulted with other interim coaches but relied primarily on player support. "The players have been unbelievable in support, they've been unbelievable in showing up and being who they are," Goebbel said. He credited the foundation laid during Doeren's 14-year period for the team's cohesion.

Defensive tackle Isaiah Shirley said the group took accountability in private discussions. "This is a game where you take accountability for what you did and what you did not do," Shirley said. The team plans to move forward with the upcoming schedule.