A Historic Opening Weekend
The Mountaineers will step onto the field on Saturday, September 5, for their first game of the 134th season, facing the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers in the Sun Belt Conference. The matchup marks the beginning of a new era under head coach Ryan Beard, who arrives from Missouri State where he posted a 7‑5 record the previous year.
Beard's New Coaching Staff
Beard has assembled a revamped staff, bringing in offensive coordinator Nick Petrino, son of former NFL coach Bobby Petrino, and defensive coordinator L.D. Scott. The duo joins a group of 56 newcomers, including 38 transfers, five junior‑college players and 13 high‑school signees, reshaping the roster ahead of the season.
Roster Overhaul and Transfers
Among the transfers is redshirt freshman quarterback Deuce Bailey from Missouri State, who will contend with Tyler Junior College product Tre Guerra for the starting role. Both players bring contrasting styles, with Guerra having led his team to the 2025 NJCAA title, while Bailey offers experience from the previous season.
Quarterback Battle at West Virginia
At the same time, West Virginia’s own quarterback situation remains unsettled. Head coach Rich Rodriguez has yet to name a starter, leaving returning signal‑caller Scotty Fox Jr. and Oklahoma transfer Michael Hawkins Jr. in a head‑to‑head competition for the first‑string spot.
Honoring Pat White
The game will also serve as a tribute to Pat White, the Mountaineers’ legendary quarterback whose No. 5 jersey will be retired during the ceremony. White remains the only NCAA quarterback to win four consecutive bowl games, and fans who purchased tickets before August 1 received commemorative tickets honoring his legacy.
Coverage of the contest will begin with the Mountaineer Tailgate Show at 9 a.m., followed by live network broadcast on TNT, TruTV and HBO Max at noon. The Rich Rodriguez Radio Show will air at 6 p.m. at Kegler’s Sports Bar & Grille, featuring special guests Zac Alley and Pat White, while weekly press conferences start on Tuesday, September 1, at 12:05 p.m. Fans can track updates on WVUsports.com, the Mountaineer football social channels, and outlets such as DC News Now and SportsNet Pittsburgh throughout the season.