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As the West Virginia football season progresses, fans have plenty of questions. In the latest West Virginia On SI mailbag, publisher Schuyler Callihan tackled topics ranging from recruiting to scheme. Here's a breakdown of the key discussions.
Early Enrollees Still Unclear
When asked which high school recruits plan to enroll early in January, Callihan admitted he doesn't have a definitive list yet. He typically waits until closer to signing day because circumstances can change and flips can occur. However, he noted that, similar to last year, a significant number of commits are expected to graduate early and join the program in the spring.
Secondary Struggles: Talent and Technique
A fan pointed out that the secondary seems to be a major issue, often giving receivers too much cushion. Callihan agreed, noting that cornerback play has been inconsistent. Chams Diagne has not met expectations, Nick Taylor has performed well but battled injuries, and Jason Chambers has shown rust. Beyond those three, there's little trust in the remaining corners. At safety, eye discipline is the primary problem across all three positions and every player who rotates in.
Will Grier's Coaching Future
With Will Grier entering the NFL coaching ranks this year, one fan wondered if he might ever join WVU's staff. Callihan said never say never, but he believes Grier would prefer to stay in the NFL rather than coach in college. Even if he did return to Morgantown, it likely wouldn't be while Rich Rodriguez is head coach, as there's no connection and the Air Raid and NFL systems Grier has learned don't align with Rodriguez's offensive philosophy.
Biggest Remaining Challenge
When asked which remaining game poses the biggest challenge, Callihan said all present unique difficulties, but Utah stands out. The Utes boast a top-10 offense and the nation's 27th-ranked defense. The game is on Black Friday under the lights, and Utah is contending for something significant.
Retaining Mike Hawkins Jr.
If Mike Hawkins Jr. continues his strong play, how hard will it be for WVU to keep him? Callihan explained that many NIL deals aren't public, so the market is hard to gauge, and any figures circulating are often fabricated for engagement. He emphasized that Hawkins isn't basing his decision solely on money. As long as WVU pays him what he's worth, he'll stay, and the program is confident it can do so.
Defensive Recruiting and Young Talent
After a game with many yards allowed but crucial turnovers, a fan asked about the defensive recruiting class and which young players might take a big leap next year. Callihan said it's too early to predict early contributors, but he's intrigued by defensive line commit DaJour Webb (6'1", 335 lbs), linebackers Broncs Baker (6'1", 215 lbs) and Rick Brown (6'2", 220 lbs), and cornerback Carter Bonner (6'2", 190 lbs). For current young players poised for a jump, he listed EDGE Tobi Haastrup, DL Yendor Mack, LB Miles Khatri, CB Vincent Smith, and safeties Jacob Bradford and Matt Sieg.
Zone Defense Concerns
One fan questioned why WVU keeps playing zone, as opponents frequently find open receivers, especially on third down. Callihan explained that the defense lacks the talent to play man coverage as much as coordinator Jordan Alley would like. The issue isn't just at corner, though that's a big part. The Mountaineers don't generate enough pressure on the quarterback to play man, so they sit in zone to help the secondary. However, dropping too deep or playing too far off can sometimes be problematic.
Bye Week Defensive Improvements
Regarding the plan to improve the defense over the bye week, Callihan cautioned not to expect major improvement. He noted that the team doesn't need major improvement to win games down the stretch; they just need to avoid being the worst defense in Power Four football. The plan likely involves simplifying things and building on what was shown against TCU, including some new looks. Emphasis will be on eye discipline, angles, and fitting the run correctly.
Big 12 Championship Scenario
A fan expressed frustration over the Iowa State loss, wondering if WVU is mathematically eliminated from the Big 12 title game. Callihan said the Mountaineers aren't mathematically eliminated yet, but they need a lot of chaos in addition to winning out. After last weekend's results, chaos seems possible, but WVU winning out is less likely. He also agreed that DJ Epps shouldn't be blamed for the loss, though a fumble on that play might have cost them the game.
Defensive Improvement or TCU's Struggles?
When asked whether the defense improved or TCU's offense is just bad, Callihan said it's a bit of both. TCU's offense is a mess, but WVU showed better angles, confidence, and tackling. There are still many things to fix, but it was an improvement over the previous four games.
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