The Wolfpack are in a desperate search for a new head coach and a win. State may find both within the next few weeks.

Oct 23, 2026; Stanford, California, USA; NC State Wolfpack running back Davion Gause (7) gets tackled by Stanford Cardinal safety Darrius Davis (6) during the second quarter at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

It’s been quite the weekend for NC State. The Wolfpack lost the contest with Stanford on Friday night, and their head coach was fired within hours of the game.

Let’s look at how NC State’s next three ACC opponents fared in Week 8, and we’ll size up the Wolfpack’s chances in those games.

California (3-5, 2-3 ACC)

The Golden Bears had #23 SMU up against the ropes in the first half of their game on Saturday. Cal took a 20-17 lead over the Mustangs into halftime.

But Cal couldn’t find the end zone in the second half.…