NC State turns to Cal after firing coach amid turbulent week

NC State and California meet in an ACC matchup on Saturday, Oct. 31, with both teams entering at 3-4 or 3-5, respectively. The game follows a turbulent week for the Wolfpack, who fired head coach Dave Doeren and several staff members after a loss to Stanford; attention has shifted to the coaching search, but the team still has the Cal game to play. Preview coverage focuses on whether NC State can respond with emotion and intensity, and on what the team is playing for the rest of the season. Quarterback Bailey has completed 65.3% of his passes for 1,763 yards, 11 touchdowns and four interceptions through seven games, a solid but less impressive season than some expected. The teams bring contrasting strengths: NC State has produced more total offense and points, while Cal has been more effective through the air; both defenses have allowed substantial production.