Big 12 Football: Preseason Power Rankings
By Hayden Hyde
Nov 29, 2014; Ames, IA, USA; West Virginia Mountaineers head coach Dana Holgorsen looks on during his teams game against the Iowa State Cyclones at Jack Trice Stadium. The Mountaineers beat the Cyclones 37 – 24. Mandatory Credit: Reese Strickland-USA TODAY Sports
2391. <p>West Virginia finished last season 7-6, but probably feel a lot more like Texas Tech. There wasn’t much to get excited about last season if you were a Mountaineer, but this season could be a lot different.</p> <p>The Mountaineers return 16 starters on both sides of the ball this year. Even though last season was disappointing, it was good experience for the players this season to build off.</p><div class=. . Previous: . West Virginia Mountaineers. 7. team
Skyler Howard may be the most underrated quarterback in the Big 12, and he should thrive under quarterback guru Holgorsen. Howard made his first start in the Liberty Bowl against Texas A&M after Clint Trinkett was forced to retire due to concussions. In that game, Howard threw for 285 yards and three touchdowns. Howard can use his mobility to buy time in the pocket and even make some plays with his feet.
The strongest part of West Virginia’s team will be their defense. The Mountaineers return 10 starters to that side of the ball, and it could be the best unit Holgorsen’s had during his stint in Morgantown.
A wealth of experience and a talented head coach could make West Virginia a dark horse contender in the Big 12.
Next: September 5 vs. Georgia Southern
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7
West Virginia Mountaineers
Last rank: N/A
West Virginia finished last season 7-6, but probably feel a lot more like Texas Tech. There wasn’t much to get excited about last season if you were a Mountaineer, but this season could be a lot different.
The Mountaineers return 16 starters on both sides of the ball this year. Even though last season was disappointing, it was good experience for the players this season to build off.
Skyler Howard may be the most underrated quarterback in the Big 12, and he should thrive under quarterback guru Holgorsen. Howard made his first start in the Liberty Bowl against Texas A&M after Clint Trinkett was forced to retire due to concussions. In that game, Howard threw for 285 yards and three touchdowns. Howard can use his mobility to buy time in the pocket and even make some plays with his feet.
The strongest part of West Virginia’s team will be their defense. The Mountaineers return 10 starters to that side of the ball, and it could be the best unit Holgorsen’s had during his stint in Morgantown.
A wealth of experience and a talented head coach could make West Virginia a dark horse contender in the Big 12.
Next: September 5 vs. Georgia Southern
Next: Texas