NC State head coach Dave Doeren discusses heart-stopping win over rival UNC in 2OT
The NC State Wolfpack got an unbelievable performance from their fourth-string quarterback on Friday night in their rivalry game against the North Carolina Tar Heels. Ben Finley delivered a performance that won’t be soon forgotten by the Wolfpack faithful–propelling his team to a 30-27 heart-stopping double-overtime stunner over their bitter rivals in Chapel Hill. Finley looked like anything but a fourth-stringer, connecting on 27 of his 40 pass attempts for 271 yards, while tossing in two touchdowns and no interceptions.
Following the emotional victory, NC State head coach Dave Doeren was visibly in tears when he spoke with ESPN sideline reporter Tom Luginbill on the field.
You can watch the full interview below or read the transcribed version below.
“I mean, these guys got so much heart. I’m so proud of them. It’s our fourth-string quarterback. He was on the scout team, you know?! I mean, we’re down so many players. The heart of these guys. The staff. I’m super blessed and thankful. Thank you, God. Giving him all the glory,” Doeren said.
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Then the NC State head coach had to give his defense credit for a spectacular performance against one of the best offenses in the country. They frustrated North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye for most of the evening. “It’s the best defense in the conference, hands down. These guys. Tony Gibson. That staff. Those players. The heart they’ve got. I love it. I love that. Such a great win,” Doeren said.
He also discussed how resilient his team was after battling through so many injuries. “You can’t say enough. And the guys that have been hurt have stepped in as leaders and coaches to help their teammates. So, and I mean, it’s a beautiful group of guys, man. I’m blessed to be their coach and thankful to have this W with them. It’s gonna be a great night. Turn the red light on, Chancellor Woodson. Go Pack!”
The win was the 5th win in the last 7 games for NC State against North Carolina. The win was not only big for the Wolfpack’s season but also made a substantial impact on Dave Doeren’s wallet. He picked up a $50,000 bonus as they got their 8th win of the season by defeating the ‘Heels. Doeren has now earned $75,000 in bonuses this year, according to Steve Berkowitz of USA Today.
NC State had numerous players step up in the big win
NC State receiver Devin Carter had a spectacular evening, hauling in six catches for 130 receiving yards and a touchdown. In the fourth quarter, he hauled in an absolutely beautiful 26-yard touchdown catch from Ben Finley to put the Wolfpack up 24-17. It was a back-shoulder fade that was one of the most gorgeous spirals of the evening. NC State kicker Christopher Dunn hit three of his four field goal attempts and drilled all three of his extra points. He drilled two kicks in the overtime sessions, one in the first overtime and one in the second overtime. The last one would end up being the difference after North Carolina’s Noah Burnette missed the final kick in double overtime, hooking it far left of the uprights.