Mark Bergin is a multiplatform senior producer at WRAL.

Raleigh, N.C.

Coach Dave Doeren of NC State stated on Monday that the team’s bye week was perfectly timed for their football squad.

Doeren stated that it begins with contemplation and learning.

On Saturday at 2 p.m., NC State (4-3, 1-2 ACC) will welcome Clemson (4-3, 2-3 ACC) to Carter-Finley Stadium. The CW will broadcast the game.

“The break is significant,” Doeren commented on the bye week. “You can become overly fixated on the first seven games.”

Both NC State and Clemson have recently suffered defeats.

The Wolfpack were defeated by the Duke Blue Devils with a score of 24-3 on October 14th.

According to Doeren, the offense was ashamed after the game. He believes that there were sincere discussions about improving and taking responsibility.

Men take responsibility for what they need to improve upon. Being a good leader begins with taking ownership, and as I mentioned after the game, it begins with me and then extends to my coaches, players, and this entire team.

On Monday, Doeren discussed the effectiveness of his team’s offense in the past two games. During those two games, sophomore quarterback MJ Morris has been leading the team.

During the Marshall game, our offensive performance was efficient and we met expectations. However, in the Duke game, we regressed due to our own mistakes. Doeren acknowledged this, stating: “We had responded well in the Marshall game, but unfortunately, we took a step backward in the Duke game.”

On Saturday, the Tigers were defeated by the Miami Hurricanes with a score of 28-20 in double overtime.

In addition, Doeren mentioned the possibility of having an extra week to get ready for Clemson.

“I believe this is the most recent bye week during my time here,” stated Doeren.

The defense of NC State will attempt to prevent Clemson’s junior running back Will Shipley, who has recorded 494 rushing yards and five touchdowns, from advancing.

“Undoubtedly, we have a great understanding of Will and I have high regard for him,” stated Doeren. “He is a resilient individual and has performed admirably for their team.”

In addition, Doeren brought attention to the performance of second-year quarterback Cade Klubnik.

Doeren stated that it is evident that Klubnik is making progress.

Since taking over as head coach at NC State in 2013, Doeren has only managed to defeat Clemson once. The Wolfpack’s victory over the Tigers, with a final score of 27-21, occurred on September 25, 2021, during their most recent meeting in Raleigh.

Source: wralsportsfan.com