'Program culture' is quite the buzzword (buzz phrase?) in college football, but it cannot be overstated how importat it is. And since his first stint at West Virginia in the 2000's, Rich Rodriguez has been know for his unique culture, which he brands 'hard edge.' And that was something Rodriguez felt that the programlacked last seasonin his return to the program.
Now, the Mountaineers are in the second year of Rodriguez's rebuild, and while there was another massive roster turnover, there are several players returning from last season that have helped set a foundation. And after answering questions for the media during fall camp, it's clear that Rodriguez and his staff made a perfect culture addition in fullback Kayden Luke.
WVU football fullback Kayden Luke defines 'hard edge' with his mentality
When talking about his role in the blocking game, Kayden Lukemade it clear what his goal iswhen he makes it onto the field: and it's the perfect attitude for a Rich Rodriguez team.
"Any time I get in the game to block for the running backs, or block for the Y, or whatever you want to call it, I just try and knock people on their ass and that's it," Luke said.
WVU fullback Kayden Luke on his role in the blocking game: "Any time I get in the game to block for the running backs, or block for the Y, or whatever you want to call it, I just try and knock people on their ass and that's it."pic.twitter.com/iOZtb98UcS
— Joe Smith (@joesmithwrites)August 26, 2026
Nothing describes the approach Rich Rodriguez wants his team to take that "knocking people on their ass." And that's a phrase that came up multiple times during his press availability. He didn't shy away from the fact that he's hoping to hit people, and hit people hard when he's on the field.
With Rodriguez, it's very clear that he has a place in his system for a fullback. While the position has died off in college football for the most part, Rodriguez proved with Owen Schmitt that it works on his team despite his high-octane style of offense, and he used bandit Curtis Jones in a similar fashion last season as well. So Luke will certainly find opportunities to make it onto the field.
And having him on the field, and just in the locker room in general, is important for the Mountaineers. He bring the exact type of mentality that a program seeking to establish a 'hard edge' culture needs.
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