Four Reasons Why WVU Will Surpass Preseason Expectations
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The bar has been set pretty low for the West Virginia Mountaineers in 2023 as they were picked to finish dead last in the Big 12 Conference by the media. Expectations within the fanbase are considerably low as well, given how the first four years of the Neal Brown era have gone.
But how can this team rise above and well-beyond its preseason expectations?
Garrett Greene becomes a true dual-threat QB
It may have taken longer than the coaching staff or the fans would have liked, but better late than never, right? Greene now has a few years in the system and should be able to do more than just beat you with his legs. The arm strength is there and always has been. It's been the decision-making and at times, accuracy that have held Greene back a bit. If he does indeed take that next step as a passer, the potential for this offense will be through the roof.
Last year's defense was an anomaly
Neal Brown has talked about this at length. The defense was great in 2020 and pretty good in 2021. They lacked depth and experience in the back end last year and when Charles Woods went down in the season opener, it forced some guys into roles and positions they were quite ready for. They addressed the depth issue with the portal this offseason and have reeled in some All-Conference talent from other leagues.
CJ Donaldson is healthy and has experience
West Virginia has one of the best running back rooms in the Big 12, headlined by CJ Donaldson, who rushed for 526 yards and eight touchdowns in just seven games during what was his first-ever season playing the position. The season-ending injury was unfortunate, but perhaps it allowed him to really watch, learn, and further study the position. Donaldson is in line for a monster season in year two and can stay fresh with a rotation of Justin Johnson Jr., Jaylen Anderson, and Jahiem White.
Best OL in the Big 12
Games are oftentimes won in the trenches and when you have a seasoned group up front like the Mountaineers have, you always have a chance. Zach Frazier is arguably the best center in all of college football. Wyatt Milum is a rising star at left tackle. Doug Nester is an All-Big 12 caliber talent at right tackle. And Tomas Rimac is pretty stout at left guard.
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