NC State Basketball Coaching Shake-Up: Changes After Season Struggles

In a series of significant changes within its football program, North Carolina State University (NC State) announced the firing of defensive coordinator DJ Eliot on Sunday, a day after the university parted ways with head coach Dave Doeren. This decision comes in the wake of ongoing defensive struggles that have plagued the Wolfpack, particularly in pass defense.

Defensive Struggles Highlighted

Under Eliot’s leadership, NC State’s defense has faced consistent challenges. As of the start of the 2026 season, the Wolfpack’s defense ranked 104th nationally, conceding an average of 27.7 points per game. Last season, the team allowed 411.9 yards per game, marking their position at 109th in the nation. The pass defense was especially vulnerable, yielding 273.2 passing yards per game in 2025.

The recent changes were prompted by a disappointing loss to Stanford on Friday night, where NC State fell 31-28, leaving them with a record of 3-4 for the season.

Coaching Changes in Context

Dave Doeren, who leaves the program as the winningest coach in NC State history with 98 victories, was in his 14th year at the helm when he was relieved of his duties. General manager Andy Vaughn was also let go on the same day as Doeren’s dismissal, marking a significant shift in the leadership dynamics of the team.

Interestingly, Stanford, who defeated NC State, entered the game averaging only 18.3 points per game and ranked 127th in scoring offense—a performance that further highlighted the Wolfpack’s defensive shortcomings.

DJ Eliot’s Departure

DJ Eliot took over as defensive coordinator on December 31, 2024, succeeding Tony Gibson, who departed to lead Marshall as head coach. Eliot implemented a varied defensive scheme, integrating both 3-4 and four-man fronts with the aim of increasing pressure on opposing quarterbacks. However, the strategy has failed to yield the desired results, leading to his exit from the program.

Tragically, Eliot’s tenure was also marred by personal loss, as his daughter Drue passed away during the 2025 season at the age of 18 after battling Ewing sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer.

Interim Leadership and Next Steps

In light of these coaching changes, Charlton Warren will take over defensive play-calling responsibilities for the remainder of the season. Meanwhile, Todd Goebbel, previously the team’s running backs coach and special teams coordinator, has been appointed as the interim head coach following Doeren’s dismissal.

NC State is set to play against California at home on Saturday, with both teams seeking to improve their standings in the current season. The Wolfpack currently holds a record of 3-4 overall, with a 1-3 mark in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).