From West Virgina Mountaineers On SI · · 2m
West Virginia Mountaineers Mailbag: Midseason Changes
West Virginia Mountaineers face midseason defense struggles after loss to Arizona.
In brief
West Virginia Mountaineers face midseason defense struggles after loss to Arizona. West Virginia Mountaineers' defense has historically underperformed, with questions about coaching changes and quarterback Hawkins' role. Originally reported by West Virgina Mountaineers On SI.
Mailbag opens
West Virginia Mountaineers fans receive a mailbag split into two pieces for the third consecutive week.
Arizona loss frustration
Frustration grows after West Virginia Mountaineers lose to Arizona, a game that was expected to be decided.
QB desperation pass
Fans question why starting QB took a big shot to throw a desperation pass on 4th down when down by 21 with a minute left.
QB pass analysis
Starting QB Hawkins completed 11 of 28 passes, with low completion percentage due to heavy reliance on deep shots.
Defense performance
West Virginia Mountaineers' defense has historically underperformed, failing to stop high school teams.
Defense coaching concerns
Defense coaching staff lacks experience in calling defense at Division 1 level, making midseason changes unlikely.
Defense issues
West Virginia Mountaineers' defense issues stem from multiple factors including play-calling, player positioning, and coaching.
Resource management
Program director Wren focuses on providing resources rather than limiting them to address defensive issues.
Interim DC search
No interim defensive coordinator candidates exist beyond Josh Eilert, who has limited experience with Zac's defense.
Offensive play count
West Virginia Mountaineers have gone over 100 offensive plays only twice in history, both times winning.
Quarterback retention
Quarterback Hawkins plans to stay at West Virginia for two more years, with program support for his development.
Future outlook
West Virginia Mountaineers' defense issues will require multiple adjustments to improve performance.
Season impact
West Virginia Mountaineers have lost two games to Oklahoma in recent history, with one loss in 2016.
Next steps
West Virginia Mountaineers fans can submit questions for next week's mailbag via X or Facebook.
Program status
West Virginia Mountaineers' defense has historically underperformed, with no immediate coaching changes expected.
The takeaway
West Virginia Mountaineers' defense has historically underperformed, with questions about coaching changes and quarterback Hawkins' role.
