RELEASE: Kitchings, McDonald Named Co-Offensive Coordinators
RALEIGH, NC - NC State head coach Dave Doeren has announced that Des Kitchings and George McDonald will serve as co-offensive coordinators for Wolfpack football. Kitchings has been on the Wolfpack staff since 2012, while McDonald is finishing his fourth season with the program. The two assume the role formerly held by Eliah Drinkwitz, who was named the new head coach at Appalachian State on Thursday.
“I’m excited that Des and George will have the opportunity to oversee and develop our offense,” said Doeren on Friday evening. “They have a great working relationship and respect for each other and their familiarity with our offense will provide us with great continuity for our players and recruits.”
Kitchings joined the Wolfpack staff in 2012 and has coached the running backs throughout his tenure. The 15-year coaching veteran has led NC State running backs to three consecutive 1,000-yard seasons: Matthew Dayes in 2016, Nyheim Hines in 2017 and Reggie Gallaspy, Jr., this season. He will continue to coach the running backs in this new role.
“I would like to thank to Coach Doeren and the administration for this opportunity,” said Kitchings. “I’m excited to work hand in hand with Coach McDonald and the rest of our staff to continue the progression of NC State football.”
McDonald, a 19-year veteran of the coaching ranks, joined the staff in 2015 and will continue to coach the Wolfpack wide receivers. Under his guidance, the Wolfpack became the first team in ACC history to have two wide receivers named first-team all-conference performers, as Kelvin Harmon and Jakobi Meyers were both honored in 2018. Harmon has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving campaigns, and he and Meyers have both reached that milestone this season.
“I’m extremely grateful to Coach Doeren for this opportunity,” said McDonald. “My family and I love NC State and I’m proud of what we’re building with Wolfpack football. Our staff has a great relationship and I know that will continue as Coach Kitchings and I take on this role.”
The 9-3 Wolfpack begins practice this weekend as they prepare to face Texas A&M in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl on Dec. 31. It marks the program’s fifth-straight bowl trip.