Charlotte, NC – As college football gears up for another exciting season, NC State head coach Dave Doeren took the stage at the ACC Kickoff event on July 24, 2025, to discuss his team’s preparations, aspirations, and the evolving landscape of college football. Entering his 13th year at the helm of the Wolfpack, Doeren expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming season and the potential of his players, while reflecting on the program’s journey and accomplishments.
A Strong Foundation
In his opening remarks, Doeren emphasized the growth and success of the NC State football program over the past decade. He proudly noted that he is now the winningest coach in the school’s history and has led the team to ten bowl games in twelve years. “There are so many positive things happening on our campus,” he stated, highlighting the academic achievements of his players, including back-to-back highest GPAs in school history.
Doeren attributed much of the program’s success to the leadership of Chancellor Buan and Athletic Director Boo Coorigan, and he expressed gratitude for the commitment of his players and coaching staff. “This is probably the most coachable team I’ve had in a long time,” he said, noting their focus and determination to improve after a season that left them feeling they had “left a lot of meat on the bone.”
Staff Changes and Player Development
A key focus of Doeren’s address was the changes within his coaching staff, including the promotion of former players to coaching positions. He highlighted the energy and passion that former players like Isaiah Moore and Gavin Lleier bring to the program. “Their blood is in the bricks,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of having coaches who understand the program’s culture and values.
The addition of veteran coaches like Kurt Roer, a storied offensive coordinator, has also been a significant development. Doeren praised Roer’s ability to create cohesion within the offense and build relationships with players, particularly the quarterbacks. The head coach noted that having a returning starter at quarterback for the first time in three years has fundamentally changed the offseason dynamic, allowing for more focused development and leadership on the field.
Offensive and Defensive Strategies
Doeren provided insights into the team’s offensive and defensive strategies as they prepare for the upcoming season. He acknowledged that while the offense returns many key players, including talented receivers and a promising running back in Hollywood Smothers, they must also address the departures of some offensive linemen. He expressed confidence in the offensive unit’s ability to gel and improve under Roer’s guidance.
On the defensive side, Doeren identified the need for more consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, a challenge the team faced in the previous season. He highlighted the hiring of DJ Elliott, a defensive coordinator with a proven track record of improving defensive statistics, as a crucial step in addressing these issues. Doeren emphasized that the competitive nature of fall camp will be essential for integrating new players and refining the defensive strategy.
The ACC Landscape
During the press conference, Doeren also addressed the broader context of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) and its standing within college football. He expressed pride in being part of a conference that has produced national champions and consistently sends teams to bowl games. “We have the same aspirations that we’ve had,” he stated, emphasizing the team’s goal of winning every game and competing for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
When questioned about the potential for multiple teams from the ACC to qualify for the College Football Playoff, Doeren advocated for a system that rewards strong performances across the league rather than limiting opportunities based on conference affiliations. He called for a more inclusive playoff structure that recognizes the best teams, regardless of their conference.
Building a Culture of Development
A recurring theme in Doeren’s address was the importance of player development, both on and off the field. He articulated a commitment to helping every player in the program improve, regardless of their role. “Our job is to help them get better,” he remarked, emphasizing the holistic approach to development that the coaching staff takes.
Doeren noted that returning players have the advantage of building on their previous experiences, allowing coaches to identify areas for improvement. This developmental focus extends beyond athletic performance to include personal growth and leadership skills, reinforcing the program’s commitment to shaping well-rounded individuals.
The Path Forward: Goals and Aspirations
As the season approaches, Doeren remains focused on the goals he set when he first arrived at NC State. “There’s still meat on the bone,” he reiterated, signaling his ambition to achieve milestones such as winning the ACC and securing a spot in the playoffs. The Wolfpack’s journey will begin with a competitive fall camp, where players will vie for starting positions and demonstrate their commitment to the team’s success.
Summary for NC State football coach Dave Doeren at ACC Kickoff – 7.24.25 by Merlin AI
NC State Football Coach Dave Doeren Discusses Program Growth, Player Development, and Upcoming Season at ACC Kickoff 2025.
00:14 Dave Doeren reflects on NC State’s progress and team culture in his 13th year.
- Doeren highlights his achievements, including being the winningest coach in school history and participating in 10 bowl games over the last 12 years.
- He emphasizes the team’s focus, coachability, and recent staff changes, including promoting former players to coaching positions.
02:28 NC State’s coaching staff emphasizes energy, cohesion, and improvement in both offense and defense.
- Dave Doeren highlights the promotion of Elijah Shaw as assistant beline coach, emphasizing his valuable contributions.
- Kurt Roer’s experience in the ACC and SEC is expected to enhance offensive cohesion and trust with the quarterback.
04:20 NC State’s football team is evolving with returning players and a strong quarterback leadership.
- The coaching staff has gotten younger, bringing infectious energy to practices and player development.
- Key returning offensive players, including a starting quarterback, are expected to enhance team performance this season.
06:07 NC State football focuses on a competitive fall camp with new defensive additions.
- Key players like Kian Sloan and Sebastian Harsh strengthen the defensive line with proven skills.
- DJ’s experience enhances the team’s tactical adjustments, and all specialists are returning for the season.
08:02 Coach Doeren emphasizes NC State’s competitive spirit and aspirations in the ACC.
- Highlighted the importance of returning players and their roles in team performance this season.
- Expressed pride in NC State’s position within the ACC and commitment to championship goals.
09:48 Dave Doeren emphasizes the importance of finding the right fit for family and coaching success.
- Doeren prioritizes stability for his family, considering the impact of moving on his three sons.
- He believes North Carolina State offers a supportive environment and aligns with his personal and professional goals.
11:30 Dave Doeren advocates for a clearer playoff format in college football.
- Doeren suggests using an algorithm that emphasizes strength of schedule and quality wins to determine playoff teams.
- He reflects on FCS playoff experiences, arguing that the focus should be on the best teams rather than conference politics.
13:13 NC State football focuses on player development and adapting offensive strategies.
- The program emphasizes developing every player, regardless of their status, to improve both on and off the field.
- Offensive strategies are adjusted based on opponent defense, utilizing familiar plays with new verbiage for better execution.