UT Martin head coach Jason Simpson took to the Ohio Valley Conference weekly call and Skyhawks Sports Talk to outline what his team expects when it travels to Morgantown to face the West Virginia Mountaineers.
The Mountaineers' Rushing Attack
The Mountaineers have built a reputation for a powerful rushing attack, evident when they amassed 281 yards on the ground against Coastal Carolina, a performance praised for its ball‑snapping speed and precise execution.
However, the 11‑on‑11 format forces the offensive line and quarterback to maintain exact alignment, execute complex calls, and communicate under pressure, presenting a significant hurdle for the unit.
Skyhawks' New Challenges
Facing a demanding stretch, the Skyhawks must navigate four consecutive FBS matchups, the next of which includes a Big 12 opponent, while adjusting to the unfamiliar setting of Morgantown, a venue many of them have never played in before.
Their starting quarterback, a transfer from Oklahoma, has been emphasizing a running‑oriented approach to counter a multi‑defensive scheme that the Mountaineers are likely to deploy.
Rich Rodriguez, the West Virginia head coach, is known for a disciplined coaching philosophy that has already helped recruit Ty Simpson, the son of Jason Simpson, who previously played at Alabama, underscoring the personal connections that shape the rivalry.
Simpson noted that Rodriguez’s consistent methodology, honed during his tenure at Jacksonville State, is a factor he respects and believes will test his team’s preparation as they head into a grueling schedule.