Around this time last year, Philip Rivers was making one of the most shocking returns in recent sports history. Now, he is preparing for another daring undertaking. The former star quarterback is reuniting with his Alma mater and officially becoming the new NC State football head coach. Many fans cracked jokes and mocked the Indianapolis Colts when Rivers briefly came out of retirement last season, but he took the job incredibly seriously. He intends to do the same with the Wolf Pack, even though some people will call this a gimmick hire. The program legend has heard it all, and he just wants to maximize the opportunity.
“There’s no denying that this is going to take hard work, but we’re not scared of hard,” Rivers said in a statement after landing the HC position, per On3's Pete Nakos. “I look forward to getting after it every single day with an unbelievable coaching staff and a group of players who are dedicated to relentlessly pursuing victory.”
Rivers started four years at NC State and ranks first in school history with 1,087 completions, 13, 484 passing yards and 95 passing touchdowns. He knows Raleigh, he knows what it means to represent the Pack, and he also knows his way around the sidelines. The eight-time Pro Bowler served as the head coach at Fairhope, Alabama's St. Michael Catholic High School for the last six years and can ideally build strong connections with young players at the next level.
Article Continues BelowRivers lives life to the fullest and approaches football with infectious enthusiasm. NC State was steady for much of Dave Doeren's tenure, but if this ACC squad is truly going to ascend, it will probably need an NIL boost. A well-liked ex-QB who bleeds Wolfpack red, white and black could attract loads of support throughout the community.
Philip Rivers does not see himself as a cash cow, however. He is committed to molding the next generation of NC State greatness. That mission starts right away.