West Virginia quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. delivered a clutch performance in Charlotte, North Carolina, as the Mountaineers defeated No. 25 Virginia 38-27 in the Duke’s Mayo Classic. On third‑and‑5, Hawkins launched a deep pass to wide receiver Jaden Bray, who hauled in a 38‑yard reception that set the ball at the Cavaliers’ 25‑yard line.
Two plays later, Hawkins powered into the end zone for a touchdown that gave WVU a two‑score lead. The Mountaineers never looked back, finishing the game with a 38‑27 margin that kept their season unbeaten.
Key offensive highlights
Hawkins finished with 123 rushing yards on 18 carries and added 123 passing yards, completing 10 of 17 attempts after a 0‑for‑4 start. He accounted for five total touchdowns—three rushing and two receiving—showcasing his dual‑threat ability.
Transfer running back Cam Cook contributed 123 rushing yards on 30 carries, while receiver D.J. Epps led the team with three catches for 92 yards and two touchdowns. Bray added two receptions for 67 yards, and the Mountaineers averaged 19 yards per completion.
Defensive stand
Virginia quarterback Beau Pribula threw for 197 yards and two touchdowns, but WVU’s defense limited his rushing to eight attempts for a net loss of one yard and recorded three sacks, including a crucial nine‑yard sack on a fourth‑quarter third‑and‑7.
Virginia’s late‑game drive stalled, and a missed 39‑yard field goal by Will Bett Ridge set up WVU’s final possession, sealing the win.
Coach’s perspective
Head coach Rich Rodriguez praised Hawkins, calling him “electric” and noting his composure in only his third game in the system. Rodriguez highlighted the significance of beating a ranked opponent and emphasized the team’s respect for Virginia’s program.
With the victory, WVU heads into Big 12 play, hosting Oklahoma State on September 26, while maintaining an unblemished conference record.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
