The resurgence of West Virginia football under Neal Brown
The West Virginia Mountaineers football team is poised for a breakout season in 2024, under the leadership of head coach Neal Brown. After a disappointing 5-7 record in 2022, the Mountaineers have made significant strides in recruiting and player development, and are now considered a legitimate contender in the Big 12 Conference.
Neal Brown’s impact on the program
Brown, who was hired in 2019, has quickly turned the Mountaineers program around. He has recruited a talented group of players, including several highly-rated prospects. He has also developed a strong culture of accountability and hard work within the team. As a result, the Mountaineers have shown significant improvement in each of Brown’s first three seasons.
Key players to watch in 2024
The Mountaineers have a number of key players to watch in 2024, including quarterback JT Daniels, running back CJ Donaldson, and wide receiver Bryce Ford-Wheaton. Daniels is a talented passer who has the potential to be one of the best quarterbacks in the Big 12. Donaldson is a dynamic running back who is coming off a breakout season in 2022. Ford-Wheaton is a versatile wide receiver who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball.
Schedule analysis
The Mountaineers have a favorable schedule in 2024, with only two games against ranked opponents. They open the season at home against the Pittsburgh Panthers, a team that they should be able to beat. They then have a bye week before traveling to Morgantown to face the Virginia Tech Hokies. The Hokies are a tough opponent, but the Mountaineers should be able to win this game if they play well. After a home game against the Kansas Jayhawks, the Mountaineers travel to Waco to face the Baylor Bears. The Bears are a rising team, but the Mountaineers should be able to compete with them. The Mountaineers then have a home game against the Texas Longhorns, a team that they have not beaten since 2012. This will be a tough game, but the Mountaineers have a chance to win if they play well. After a road game against the Oklahoma Sooners, the Mountaineers return home to face the Kansas State Wildcats. The Wildcats are a tough opponent, but the Mountaineers should be able to win this game if they play well. The Mountaineers then have a road game against the Texas Tech Red Raiders, a team that they should be able to beat. They then close the season with a home game against the Iowa State Cyclones, a team that they have not beaten since 2016. This will be a tough game, but the Mountaineers have a chance to win if they play well.
Conclusion
The Mountaineers are poised for a breakout season in 2024. They have a talented roster, a favorable schedule, and a strong coaching staff. If they can stay healthy and play to their potential, they have a chance to win the Big 12 championship and make a run at the College Football Playoff.
