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West Virginia University- West Virginia Mountaineers Located in Morgantown, WV, the West Virginia Mountaineers program began play in 1891. Former coach Don Nehlen was very successful during his 20-year tenure, winning 61.4 percent of his games. Rich Rodriguez took over after Nehlen’s retirement in 2000 and has carried on the winning tradition. The Mountaineers have been one of the better teams in the Big East of late and this season will be no different. 2007 West Virginia Mountaineers Outlook: The West Virginia Mountaineers enter the season with national championship aspirations. Led by explosive running back Steve Slaton and versatile quarterback Pat White, the Mountaineers are the class of the Big East Conference. The team returns 15 starters from last year’s 11-win season. The Mountaineers have a very favorable schedule. Outside of a trip to Rutgers and home game against Louisville the following week, the Mountaineers will be a clear favorite. If the defense can step up and play better, this season could be a historic one in Morgantown. West Virginia Mountaineers 2007 Schedule Sep 1 - vs. Western Mich, 3:30 PM Sep 8 - at Marshall, 11:10 AM Sep 13 - at Maryland, 7:45 PM Sep 22 - vs. East Carolina, 3:30 PM Sep 28 - at So Florida, 8:00 PM Oct 6 - at Syracuse, TBA Oct 13 - Open Oct 20 - vs. Miss State, TBA Oct 27 - at Rutgers, TBA Nov 3 - Open Nov 8 - vs. Louisville, 7:30 PM Nov 17 - at Cincinnati, TBA Nov 24 - vs. Connecticut, TBA Dec 1 - vs. Pittsburgh, TBA West Virginia Mountaineers Head Coach Profile Rich Rodriguez is one of the best coaches in college football. Almost lured away by Alabama, Rodriguez made the decision to remain at West Virginia. He played defensive back for the Mountaineers under Don Nehlen. Before arriving in Morgantown, Rodriguez was the offensive coordinator at Clemson. The Mountaineers have enjoyed four consecutive winning seasons and are could potentially win the national championship in 2007. West Virginia Mountaineers- Key Departures/Players to Watch RB Steve Slaton and QB Pat White make the Mountaineers offense roll. Slaton has uncanny breakaway speed and White is a running back playing quarterback. Slaton is on the short list for the Heisman Trophy. On defense, the Mountaineers must improve their pass defense. Sophomore free safety Quinton Andrews should make an impact in the secondary. |
West Virginia
