WVU taking it one game at a time
There’s a high level of optimism in Morgantown.
With several key players returning to the Mountaineers along with the addition of several transfers, some believe that the sky's the limit for West Virginia this season, but head coach Dana Holgorsen says that the games are played for a reason.
“I think that’s why you play 12-13 games probably more than anything,” Holgorsen said. “I like our team and where we’re at. I think there’s a pretty high level of optimism right now.”
West Virginia enters this season ranked in the AP Preseason Poll for the first time since 2012, coming in at No. 22. The Mountaineers are one of five teams from the Big 12 to appear in the top 25 rankings, joining Oklahoma (No. 7), Oklahoma State (No. 10), Kansas State (No. 20) and Texas (No. 23).
Despite earning a spot in the preseason rankings, Holgorsen says that the preseason polls shouldn’t be a clear indication of how the team will perform this season.
“The top 20 stuff is good for the program, no question it is, but it’s all preseason stuff,” Holgorsen said. “You have to line up and play and you have to earn it.”
Why is there a high level of optimism in Morgantown?
A number of things come to mind.
West Virginia has added several key transfers that will fill voided areas in certain position groups and provide future depth such as Miami transfer quarterback, Jack Allison, and Alabama transfer wide receiver, T.J. Simmons.
The team also has added transfers in cornerbacks Hakeem Bailey and Corey Winfield that could have a significant impact on defense this season.
Along with transfers, the Mountaineers return several key players on offense, including four offensive linemen that have a combined 46 starts and a versatile offensive backfield in running backs Justin Crawford, Kennedy McKoy and Martell Pettaway.
The offense will also have a new look this year with new offensive coordinator, Jake Spavital taking over the play calling duties and redshirt junior quarterback, Will Grier, leading the huddle.
On the other side of the ball, defensive coordinator Tony Gibson has once again had to replace more than half of last year’s defense, but was effective in facing the same challenge last season, guiding the defense to a No. 3 ranking for total defense in the Big 12.
Similar to last season, West Virginia possesses a solid group of leadership that will help carry the team with players such as Grier, fifth-year linebacker Al-Rasheed Benton and fifth-year fullback and tight end Elijah Wellman standing out as the leaders.
When asked if this year’s team is capable of winning the Big 12 Championship, Wellman shared the team’s optimism and top goal.
“That’s our main goal,” Wellman said. “We believe in our guys and who all is around us and our coaching staff.”
Before a Big 12 Championship can enter the conversation, the Mountaineers must first take care of business of the team ranked one spot ahead of them: Virginia Tech.
One thing that is certain is that both teams will bring a high level of confidence to Fedex Field in the battle for the Black Diamond Trophy.
“If there’s no optimism going into Game One, then you’re not in a very good place,” Holgorsen said. “I think there’s a pretty high level of optimism here and I know it exists down in Blacksburg as well. It’s a good start, but that’s all it is – a start.”
