If there's one thing that West Virginia fans expect from Rich Rodriguez's return to the program, it's a high-octane, elite-caliber offense that runs circles around opposing defenses.
That's what defined Rodriguez's first stint with the program, and he made his reputation in the sport as an offensive genius. That likely left a lot of room for disappointment for many last year, however, when the Mountaineers put forth one of the worst offenses in not just the Big 12, but all of FBS.
Some of that had to do with Rodriguez being a bit behind the 8-ball when he took the job, and not getting to get all the talent he wanted on the roster. Other issues arose, such as injuries, that further plagued the group. So let's take a look at what to expect from the Mountaineers on offense this fall.
West Virginia's skill players
At quarterback, there should be a definitive improvement. Either Scotty Fox Jr. re-inherits the starting job after winning it for the final six games last season, taking the next step forward as a sophomore, or Oklahoma transfer Michael Hawkins Jr. will outshine last year's best option at the position. Either way, that's good news.
The Mountaineers also upgraded at running back, adding the top FBS rusher in Cam Cook from the portal, as well as a 4-star freshman and a true fullback with starting Big 12 experience. With Rodriguez's offense a run-heavy scheme, these massive talents should help propel the run game to the next level.
At wideout, the Mountaineers welcome back veteran Jaden Bray, and inherit transfers with starting experience in John Neider and Prince Strachan on the outside. At slot, Troy transfer DJ Epps had impressed many in summer workouts, and he will be backed up by a speedy JUCO addition. And Taron Francis is one year removed from being a four-star SEC signee, and will also compete.
And the Mountaineers return a tight end who made significant contributions last season in Ryan Ward, and add two Power 5 transfers in Cam Ball and Josh Sapp. So from receiver to tight end, the Mountaineers should have plentiful pass catchers ready to make an impact.
West Virginia's offensive line
The Mountaineers were no worse on offensive than in the trenches last year, where a lack of experience and talent contributed significantly to a historically bad group. But this year, the add a 4-star freshman rumored to be making a push as a starter in Kevin Brown. They also secured five FBS starters in the portal, including a former Big 12 starter and two all-conference linemen from Jacksonville State.
Joining them are likely the two top linemen from last year' starting group in Landen Livingston and Nick Krahe, who gained crucial in-game experience last year. And capping it off, the Mountaineers reunite with former Rich Rodriguez offensive line assistant Rick Trickett, who helped him put together some of his best offensive line units at multiple previous stops, including during their first stint in Morgantown.
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