# WVU QB Trusts Virginia

> West Virginia's new QB could beat Virginia if they trust him.
- Title: WVU QB Trusts Virginia · West Virgina Mountaineers On SI
- Summary: West Virginia's new QB could beat Virginia if they trust him. West Virginia's Mike Hawkins Jr. has shown explosive passing ability to beat Virginia if the…
- Keywords: mike hawkins jr, west virginia mountaineers, virginia, rich rod, college football, quarterback, passing, sports, WVU, Trusts, West Virgina Mountaineers On SI
- Source: West Virgina Mountaineers On SI — https://si.com/college/westvirginia/football/wvu-has-the-quarterback-to-beat-virginia-will-it-trust-him
- Published: 2026-09-16T12:49:46+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: mike hawkins jr, west virginia mountaineers, virginia, rich rod, college football, quarterback, passing, sports
## Practice Week Balance
West Virginia's offense is more balanced in practice than games.
## Coach's Warning
Coaches often promise changes that don't happen.
## Rodriguez Stance
Rodriguez won't change his run-first approach.
## Risk of Predictability
WVU's offense has been too predictable against top teams.
## Mike Hawkins Jr.
Hawkins Jr. is a versatile quarterback with passing skills.
## Passing Stats
Hawkins Jr. completes 63% of passes with zero help.
## Third Down Success
Hawkins Jr. throws 9/11 on third down for 161 yards.
## Key takeaway

West Virginia's Mike Hawkins Jr. has shown explosive passing ability to beat Virginia if the team trusts his decisions.