Former Quarterback Philip Rivers Talks Coaching Job With NC State

Serious Discussions Underway

Former NC State quarterback Philip Rivers has held serious discussions about taking over as head coach at his alma mater. A deal is not close yet. The 44 year old wants to finish his current high school season first.

Rivers is in his sixth season coaching at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama. He led the team to the state playoff semifinals in each of the past two seasons. He has never coached in college.

Replacing Dave Doeren

NC State fired head coach Dave Doeren on Oct. 24. Doeren spent 14 years at the school and became its all time winningest coach. Rivers emerged early as a favorite for the opening.

He has not met with university officials in person yet. However, outreach has started regarding how to structure a front office if he takes the job.

Rivers stated that NC State is special to him. He spoke after St. Michael lost 53-32 to Foley High School on Friday night, noting that he is focused on his team's postseason and said, "there's nothing imminent."

His son, Gunner Rivers, committed to NC State on Feb. 23. Gunner threw for 10,847 yards and 119 touchdowns in his high school career before a knee injury ended his season.

A Legendary Career

Rivers played at NC State from 2000 to 2003, setting school and conference records with 13,484 passing yards and 95 touchdowns. He led the Wolfpack to four straight bowl games under coach Chuck Amato, winning three of them.

He played 17 NFL seasons, mostly with the Chargers, retiring after 2020. Last year, he returned briefly to start three games for the Indianapolis Colts after Daniel Jones and Riley Leonard were injured. In January, he interviewed for the Buffalo Bills head coaching job before withdrawing.

What it means for the next game

California Golden Bears at NC State Wolfpack (College Football, Sat, 31 Oct): NC State Wolfpack win 75%, California Golden Bears win 25%; projected score NC State Wolfpack 34, California Golden Bears 24. Our safest pick: NC State to win.

Duke Blue Devils at NC State Wolfpack (College Football, Sat, 07 Nov): NC State Wolfpack win 57%, Duke Blue Devils win 43%; projected score NC State Wolfpack 31, Duke Blue Devils 26. Our safest pick: Under 67.5 points.