West Virginia University Football's 2024 Season Predictions and Key Players to Watch

As I sit down to analyze West Virginia University's upcoming football season, I can't help but draw parallels to that fascinating opening round of the Del Monte JPGT Championship I recently covered. Just like in junior golf where first-timers and seasoned talents create compelling dynamics, WVU's 2024 roster presents a similar intriguing mix of emerging stars and veteran leaders that could define their season trajectory. Having followed college football for over fifteen years, I've developed a keen eye for spotting breakout potential, and this Mountaineers squad has me particularly excited about what they might accomplish this fall.

The quarterback position always fascinates me, and Garrett Greene's development reminds me of those promising first-timers in the junior golf series who showed such immediate impact potential. Greene threw for 2,406 yards last season with 16 touchdowns, but what really caught my attention was his improved decision-making during spring practices. I watched him complete 72% of his passes in the Gold-Blue spring game, showing remarkable progress in reading defenses and going through his progressions. His connection with junior wide receiver Preston Fox has developed into something special - they've connected for 11 touchdowns in practice scenarios over the past three months alone. Fox's route-running precision has improved dramatically, and I predict he'll easily surpass his 2023 reception total of 48 catches.

What really gets me excited, though, is the defensive transformation under coordinator Jordan Lesley. The Mountaineers allowed 28.3 points per game last season, but the spring showed significant improvements in defensive line penetration and secondary coverage. I've been particularly impressed with freshman linebacker Josiah Trotter, whose athleticism reminds me of those emerging talents from the junior golf championship who outperformed expectations. Trotter recorded 12 tackles in the spring game alone, showing incredible instincts for a player his age. His development could be the X-factor that elevates WVU's defense from average to exceptional.

The running back room presents what I consider the team's deepest position group. CJ Donaldson's powerful running style combined with Jaylen Anderson's elusiveness creates what I believe could be the most dynamic backfield duo in the Big 12. Donaldson averaged 5.3 yards per carry last season, and I've noticed his improved patience in waiting for blocks to develop during spring sessions. Anderson's receiving ability out of the backfield adds another dimension that defensive coordinators will lose sleep over - he caught 24 passes for 189 yards last year, numbers I expect to increase significantly.

Special teams often get overlooked, but having seen how crucial every stroke proved in that junior golf championship, I can't emphasize enough the importance of Michael Hayes' consistency. The senior kicker made 15 of 18 field goals last season, including a 48-yard game-winner against Pittsburgh that still gives me chills thinking about it. His reliability in pressure situations could easily swing two or three games in WVU's favor this season.

Looking at the schedule, I'm particularly intrigued by the October 19th matchup against Cincinnati. The Bearcats' offensive scheme presents unique challenges that will test WVU's defensive improvements. Then there's the Backyard Brawl against Pittsburgh on November 28th - a rivalry game that always produces unexpected heroes, much like those junior golf first-timers who rose to the occasion. I've attended this rivalry game seven times, and the energy at Milan Puskar Stadium during these contests is simply electric, something that statistics can never fully capture.

The offensive line returns four starters, which gives me tremendous confidence in their ability to protect Greene and open running lanes. Wyatt Milum's development at left tackle has been remarkable to watch - he allowed only two sacks all last season while facing some of the conference's best pass rushers. This experienced unit should provide the stability needed for offensive coordinator Chad Scott's scheme to flourish.

As someone who's followed WVU football through both triumphant and challenging seasons, what excites me most about this team is their collective mindset. The leadership council, comprised of eight veteran players, has implemented what players describe as the most intense offseason conditioning program in recent memory. Team captain Lee Kpogba told me during spring practices that the chemistry feels different this year - more cohesive, more determined. Having witnessed previous seasons where team chemistry seemed lacking, I can attest to the different energy surrounding this group.

The Mountaineers face what I consider a manageable schedule, with five of their first seven games at home. This early home stretch could build crucial momentum heading into the tougher November matchups. I'm predicting they'll finish 9-3 overall, with losses to Texas, Oklahoma State, and one unexpected upset that always seems to happen in college football. The key will be how they respond to adversity - something that separated the contenders from the pretenders in that junior golf championship I referenced earlier.

Ultimately, WVU's success will depend on how quickly their young talents adapt to college football's pressures and how effectively their veterans provide steady leadership. The pieces are there for a memorable season that could exceed most external expectations. While I try to maintain objectivity as an analyst, I must confess I'm more optimistic about this team than I've been in several seasons. The blend of experienced players and exciting newcomers creates the kind of dynamic that makes college football so compelling to follow year after year.