Mountaineers Face Sun Devils in Crucial Road Game for Bowl Eligibility

MORGANTOWN, West Virginia – The West Virginia Mountaineers football team is gearing up for a crucial road game against Arizona State this Saturday at 1 p.m., after recently breaking a five-game losing streak.

West Virginia, with a record of 4-6, is striving for bowl eligibility as it heads into its final games of the season. The Mountaineers have found renewed momentum, winning two straight games following their setback to TCU. Their latest victory, a 29-22 win over Colorado last Saturday, has boosted team morale.

“You would think you’d see some difference, but there really hasn’t been much difference in the preparation and approach from early in the year until now,” said West Virginia head coach Rich Rodriguez. “The results have been better the last couple of games… I’m glad they’ve had just a little bit of success. They’ve put in the work and will continue to do that.”

True freshman quarterback Scotty Fox Jr. will start his fifth consecutive game, contributing to the team’s recent success with improved offensive performances, including 74 points scored over the last two games. Whether this trend continues against Arizona State, currently 6-3, will be key in determining the Mountaineers’ bowl hopes.

The Sun Devils, known for their strong defense, have allowed more than 24 points only once this season. However, they have a tendency to give up explosive plays, which could be a chance for West Virginia’s offense to capitalize.

“We’re playing good defense,” Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillingham said. “There are times we’re giving up explosive plays that are hurting us… But I’ve been happy for the most part with how our defense is playing.”

West Virginia’s rushing attack is set to be tested against Arizona State, which ranks second in the Big 12 for rush defense. “They’re really big on the interior defensive line and pretty athletic,” Rodriguez noted about ASU’s defense.

Arizona State will also be looking to utilize quarterback Jeff Sims, who has shown promise by rushing for 228 yards last game. West Virginia’s defensive coordinator Zac Alley recognized the necessity of containing Sims, acknowledging his difficulty to bring down.

Despite ASU facing challenges with injuries, including the absence of key wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, the game promises to be a competitive match-up. “Running the ball and stopping the run is always a recipe to win football games,” Dillingham added.