Brief

Todd Goebbel named interim coach as NC State looks ahead after Doeren’s firing

Goebbel, a longtime Doeren aide, inherits a 3‑4 Wolfpack and a roster eager to respond.

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 27 Oct 2026 09:27:36 GMT

North Carolina State appointed running backs coach and special‑teams coordinator Todd Goebbel as interim head coach on Monday, following the midseason dismissal of Dave Doeren on Saturday, the Associated Press reported.

What happened

Doeren was fired less than 24 hours after a 31‑point loss to Stanford that left the Wolfpack at 3‑4 overall and 1‑3 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The termination ended Doeren’s 14‑year tenure, during which he became the program’s winningest coach. Goebbel, who has been on the staff since 2019, will lead the team beginning with Saturday’s home game against California.

What the reports add

The AP article notes that defensive coordinator DJ Eliot was also dismissed after the Stanford loss, which exposed one of the nation’s weakest defenses. Assistant Charlton Warren will assume defensive play‑calling duties, while special‑teams analyst Zac Roper will fill Goebbel’s former responsibilities.

What was said

Goebbel told reporters, “Each Saturday we will field this team that Coach Doeren will be proud of, which will be hard, tough and most importantly together.” He added that he has leaned heavily on the players for guidance, saying, “The players have been unbelievable in support, they’ve been unbelievable in showing up and being who they are.” Quarterback CJ Bailey recalled receiving a call from Doeren about the firing, describing the news as a “shocker” but emphasizing the need to focus on the next positive steps for the team.

How it came about

Felo News previously covered Doeren’s dismissal on Oct. 24, describing the Wolfpack’s disappointing start and the decision to part ways with the coach after a 3‑4 record. Goebbel’s promotion continues the program’s effort to stabilize after the abrupt change, with the interim coach tasked with guiding the team through at least the final five regular‑season games.

Key facts

Todd Goebbel was named interim head coach of NC State football on Oct. 26, 2026. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Dave Doeren was fired after a 31‑point loss to Stanford, ending a 14‑year tenure. (winnipegfreepress.com)
Defensive coordinator DJ Eliot was also dismissed; Charlton Warren will handle defensive play‑calling. (winnipegfreepress.com)
The Wolfpack entered the coaching change with a 3‑4 overall record and 1‑3 ACC record. (winnipegfreepress.com)