The search for NC State's next head football coach appears to be zeroing in on a familiar face. According to reports, Philip Rivers has become the primary target for the Wolfpack's vacancy, a move that would bring the legendary quarterback back to his alma mater.
NC State parted ways with Dave Doeren last Saturday, ending his 14-year tenure with the program. Doeren, who was the fourth-longest-tenured coach in the FBS at the time of his dismissal, finished with a 98-74 record. The university paid a hefty $10.3 million buyout to facilitate the change.
Since the announcement, fans and media alike have clamored for Rivers to take the reins. NFL analyst Danny Kanell was among the most vocal supporters, saying, "I know Philip Rivers hasn't coached in college. But I think he makes a ton of sense for NC State. He has built up a winning program in high school. He would wake up potential donors. It insures you keep his son there and could build on for multiple years. The dude is a winner."
According to On3, Rivers has "emerged as the focus" of the search, though no timetable has been set for a hire. The athletic department is clearly keeping a close eye on the former star, who has been coaching at St. Michael Catholic High School since 2021.
Rivers' connection to NC State runs deep. He starred for the Wolfpack from 2000 to 2003, throwing for 13,484 yards and 95 touchdowns. His son, Gunner, is already committed to play for NC State in the 2027 season, which could be a deciding factor in his father's potential move.
When asked about the coaching search following St. Michael Catholic's game Friday night, Rivers told AL.com, "N.C. State is special to me. Coach (Dave) Doeren, what he did over 14 years, all-time winningest coach, I have a ton of respect for what he did and how he went about it with the University."
If hired, Rivers would immediately inject star power into the program. His reputation as a winner and his ability to develop quarterbacks could make NC State an attractive destination for top recruits. The move would also likely energize donors and boost the program's profile in the ACC.
While Rivers has no college coaching experience, his success at the high school level and his deep ties to the university make him a compelling candidate. The Wolfpack faithful are hopeful that their legendary quarterback will soon be leading the team from the sideline.
For more on the coaching landscape, check out how Rivers became a fan favorite for the vacancy, and see other coaching candidates in the mix across college football.
