Eagles led by trio of former Mountaineers in preseason opener.

Many football fans of West Virginia University have followed former Mountaineers to the Philadelphia Eagles. Some fans go as far as referring to them as the WVU

Many football fans of West Virginia University have followed former Mountaineers to the Philadelphia Eagles. Some fans go as far as referring to them as the WVU Eagles or the Philadelphia Mountaineers. The Super Bowl Champs started their title defense Thursday evening with the preseason opener against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Eagles saw a trio of former Mountaineers make some big plays for them.

On the offensive side of the ball two WVU products made some plays for the Eagles. While rushing for 21 yards Wendell Smallwood tied for the most carries with six. Smallwood added two catches and ran for a 2-point conversation in the 2nd quarter giving the Eagles an early lead. Shelton Gibson electrified the home fans with a 63 yard TD grab in the 2nd quarter. Gibson showed the same dazzling speed that kept Big XII Defensive Coordinators up at night. He finished his night with two catches for 77 yards, the TD, and added 53 yards on two kickoff returns.

Gibson's TD was set up by a great defensive play and pick by Rasul Douglas. Sul made a great read on a deep out and stepped in front of the receiver picking off the pass. Douglas added two tackles during his time on the field Thursday night as well.

Gibson and Douglas have been making plays throughout camp, which has earned both players some praise from Coach Pederson. If the Eagles hope to repeat all three of these former Mountaineers will be counted on to continue to make plays.