The criticism around Dave Doeren and N.C. State football is growing louder, with fans taking to social media to question the program’s current state and future direction.
Despite being heavy favorites against a Virginia Tech team with an interim coach, N.C. State lost 23-21 at home, their second straight ACC defeat, falling to 3-2 overall (1-2 in the ACC).
Doeren has built consistency—winning at least eight games in seven of his 12 seasons and setting a school record with four straight such seasons—but fans are frustrated since the Wolfpack hasn’t had a 10-win season since 2002, the only time in school history it has reached that mark.
Even with fans growing restless, Doeren is blocking out the outside noise as N.C. State gets ready to face FCS opponent Campbell (1-4) in Week 6.
Doeren downplayed the criticism, saying he doesn’t pay attention to outside noise. Speaking during his Sept. 29 press conference, he explained that his focus is on his players and preparing them to win, not on opinions from the media or fans. His responsibilities, he added, are to recruit, coach, and lead the team, while also being a husband and father.
After facing Campbell, N.C. State’s schedule gets much tougher, starting with a road trip to No. 21 Notre Dame on Oct. 11. The Wolfpack still has four ranked opponents ahead, including Miami, Georgia Tech, and Florida State, meaning the pressure could keep building if results don’t improve.
Doeren also stressed the importance of loyalty and blocking out negativity. He said tough times reveal who truly supports you and encouraged surrounding yourself with people who promote growth. For him and his team, loyalty lies with the players and coaches who are fighting together, not with outsiders who only show support when things are going well. He acknowledged the “what-have-you-done-for-me-lately” nature of college football but emphasized the need to focus on improving and getting back on track.
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