MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – After a disappointing 2025 campaign, West Virginia football head coach Rich Rodriguez is looking ahead with optimism. The Mountaineers open the 2026 season on Saturday at noon against Coastal Carolina, and Rodriguez says the team will be “fun to watch” for the right reasons.
Why the change?
Rodriguez points to a deeper, more athletic roster. The coach added several high‑profile transfers, including nation’s leading rusher Cam Cook, former Oklahoma four‑star dual‑threat quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr., and a host of defensive playmakers. He also secured a strong freshman and JUCO class, highlighted by four‑star offensive lineman Kevin Brown, who transferred from Penn State, and four‑star running back Amari Latimer, a former Wisconsin recruit.
“Our overall team speed is a little higher on both sides of the ball,” Rodriguez told reporters. “We have exciting players on offense, explosive players on defense, and we’ll play hard.”
Fresh faces, fresh energy
Brown is slated to start at left tackle as a true freshman, while versatile two‑way player Matt Sieg will serve as a punt and kick returner and could see time at safety. Latimer will back up Cook, giving the Mountaineers depth at running back. From a roster standpoint, the additions should translate into a more dynamic, faster‑paced game.
Creating a fun atmosphere
Beyond personnel, Rodriguez is reshaping the game‑day experience. He wants the team to run out of the tunnel rather than the weight room, describing the players as “gladiators.” A new tunnel camera will broadcast the entrance on the stadium’s jumbotron, and while the inflatable helmet will not return this year, the traditional fire‑breathing mascot will still fire up the crowd.
“We’ll learn a lot in the first game, probably more than any game we play, simply because there are so many new guys playing,” Rodriguez said on his radio show. “But I think they’ve earned the right to play a game and have some fun on Saturday.”
Realistic expectations
Rodriguez is careful not to equate “fun” with wins alone. He acknowledges that last season’s 49‑0 loss to Texas Tech was a low point, but stresses that a more entertaining style of play can still be a positive step forward. He does not provide a win‑total prediction, leaving the focus on effort, speed and fan enjoyment.
Local fans and alumni will be watching closely as the Mountaineers aim to turn the page on a tough year. With new talent, a faster tempo and a refreshed stadium experience, the coach believes the 2026 team can deliver the excitement that West Virginia supporters crave.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
