Mountaineers Seek Redemption Against TCU in Homecoming Showdown

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The West Virginia Mountaineers are looking to turn their luck around as they prepare to host TCU at 6 p.m. Saturday at Milan Puskar Stadium.

This Homecoming game, dubbed a Coal Rush contest, will feature the Mountaineers in black uniforms to honor West Virginia’s mining heritage. After a tough start to their Big 12 Conference schedule, which saw them unable to secure a win in their first four games, the Mountaineers are eager for improvement.

Last Saturday, West Virginia faced a disheartening 45-13 loss to Central Florida, a team that also entered the game winless in league play. This defeat marked a particularly worrisome moment for the Mountaineers as it was their first game after a bye week and occurred despite additional preparation time.

True freshman quarterback Scotty Fox Jr. struggled in his debut start against UCF but will get another chance against TCU. “He has a good skill set and he wants to be really good,” said WVU head coach Rich Rodriguez. “We’re pushing it along because we have to, but he’ll be fine.”

With other quarterbacks Nicco Marchiol and Jaylen Henderson sidelined due to injuries, Fox and Max Brown stand as the only remaining scholarship quarterbacks. Brown, who has yet to throw a pass this season, may see action if deemed fit to play.

West Virginia’s offense ranks last in the Big 12, averaging just 15.3 points per game. This offensive inconsistency has been matched by a defense allowing an average of 43 points per game in conference contests, leaving the Mountaineers seeking answers as they aim to establish their first sack against a Big 12 opponent.

TCU arrives with a record of 5-2 and boasts a strong offense led by junior quarterback Josh Hoover, who has thrown for 2,124 yards this season. TCU’s ability to be a formidable opponent is evidenced by their scoring, with no fewer than 24 points in any game this season.

While the Horned Frogs have faced challenges in their run game, averaging just 93 rushing yards in conference play, their efficiency on third downs—converting nearly 53 percent—highlights their offensive capabilities.

“You can’t change your whole offense,” Rodriguez said. “We need to give a couple other guys a shot, and there are going to be a few backups that now have a starting opportunity.”

Rodriguez emphasized the need for a renewed focus and energy after last week’s performance, where the Mountaineers were out-gained significantly. “Don’t worry about all the outside stuff. Go play football and have some fun,” he advised his players as they prepare for Saturday’s crucial contest.