WVU Mountaineers Aim for NCAA Regional Hosting Spot

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The West Virginia Mountaineers have set their sights on hosting a regional in the NCAA Tournament. The team has not hosted a regional since 2019, and before that, it had not happened since 1955. As they enter the final week of the regular season, the Mountaineers boast an impressive record of 40-10 and lead the Big 12 Conference. They need just one win or one loss from Arizona State to secure the regular season title.

Currently, projections suggest that WVU will be the 16th and final team to host a regional. This would bring in strong competition, including the (2) Tennessee Volunteers, (3) Virginia Cavaliers, and (4) Holy Cross. Tennessee is fresh off winning the College World Series last year and is positioned well to host its own regional. Meanwhile, Virginia is known for its ability to make deep tournament runs, having reached the College World Series seven times since 2009.

The coming weeks are crucial for the Mountaineers, as their performance can make hosting a regional either more manageable or impossible if they experience a late-season collapse.

Schuyler Callihan, the publisher of West Virginia On SI, has extensively covered the Mountaineers since 2016. Noting the challenges ahead, Callihan mentions that expectations for the Mountaineers in 2025 are low due to extensive roster changes and a new coaching staff. Betting outlets have set the win total for WVU at 5.5, with bettors able to take the over at +154.

The Mountaineers face several uncertainties, including a lack of experience in their roster and the quarterback situation. Presumed starter Nicco Marchiol will have competition from Texas A&M transfer Jaylen Henderson. Regardless of who takes the starting position, the general sentiment suggests lack of confidence in their ability to make an impressive showing in November.

Moreover, WVU needs to capitalize on its non-conference schedule, which includes a tricky trip to Ohio. They are expected to enter their critical Backyard Brawl game against Pitt with a 2-0 record. If they protect their home turf, they could begin their Big 12 campaign at 3-0. Achieving perfection in non-conference play would provide WVU with a solid chance to become bowl-eligible.

As the Mountaineers look forward, the significant turnover and influx of over 60 newcomers make it difficult to predict the impact players for the season. Notable newcomers include wide receiver Cam Vaughn, EDGE rusher Jimmori Robinson, and cornerback Michael Coats Jr., all of whom are expected to make significant contributions.

With the potential for major changes and challenges, the Mountaineers’ season remains a topic of anticipation.