NC State coach Dave Doeren made a striking admission during his radio show on Wednesday’s night, saying he “hated coaching” last year’s Wolfpack team. A group that posting a winning record, but apparently lacked cohesion.
“Last year, we were winning some games, and kids on our team were pouting and complaining because they weren’t getting the ball,” Doeren said. “I hated coaching that team last year.”
The comments come as Doeren faces mounting pressure in his 13th season.
The Wolfpack (4-4, 1-3 ACC) have dropped four of their last five games, including a 53-34 loss at Pittsburgh that saw the Panthers pile up 529 yards of offense.
An interesting comment from NC State coach Dave Doeren on his radio show tonight:
“Last year, we were winning some games, and kids on our team were pouting and complaining because they weren’t getting the ball. I hated coaching that team last year.”
Full response: pic.twitter.com/pU1M95yxbI
— Noah Fleischman (@fleischman_noah) October 29, 2025
Despite the struggles, Doeren insisted he’s committed to the program and focused on finishing strong. “What happens at other schools has nothing to do with what’s happening with me,” he said via WRAL. “My job is to serve these players, motivate them, hold them accountable, and enjoy coaching them every day.”
Doeren holds the most career wins in NC State history. He’s under contract through 2029, earning more than $6.1 million this season. His buyout is estimated at $13 million if dismissed after 2025, according to USA TODAY Sports.
NCSU Athletic director Boo Corrigan recently denounced the trend of mid-season firings, saying there’s “a little bit of a loss of dignity” in the practice. For now, Doeren remains focused on restoring effort and enjoyment to a team fighting to stay relevant.
NC State hosts No. 8 Georgia Tech on Saturday as it tries to stay in bowl contention.
