Week 13: Neal Brown's Weekly Hot Seat Rating
By Joshua Petry
Here we are with another edition of "Neal Brown's Weekly Hot Seat Rating."
It's crazy to think that we are approaching Week 13 already in what has been a less-than-sub-par season for the Mountaineers. I am not ready to throw in the towel yet. But with that said, after another home loss, this rating is about to take a leap higher.
Last week, this rating sat at 7 out of 10. But we are now back to an 8 out of 10. We could be entirely off the charts next week if WVU cannot get the win against UCF on Senior Day at home.
This emotional roller coaster, which is the Weekly Hot Seat Rating, is an up-and-down ride like no other. There are obviously more downs than ups. And being a fan of the Mountaineers, this isn't supposed to be a thrill ride but a ride similar to the People Mover, as seen at Disney World. A relaxing coast through the Big 12 with no twists and drops along the way. If you're not familiar with the People Mover, It's a slow, relaxing ride, yet you somehow you feel fulfilled by the end.
WVU should win most of its home games. Neal Brown should not only beat the teams he is supposed to beat but also win a few unexpected meaningful games against top-25 opponents. The circus in Morgantown has included a ride that is more like Splash Mountain—just a straight, long drop into the abyss. This is uncharted grounds, for the most part, and for WVU fans to be this disappointed year after year under Bown, I firmly believe a change will be made after the season's conclusion.
Neal Brown has recently been linked to being named the next head coach of his alma mater, UMass. There have also been rumors of Wren Baker's frustrations. All hearsay, of course, and just that, rumors. Regardless of when and if Neal Brown is let go, he will not accept a demotion of that nature. You will likely find him as an assistant at a major conference school.