West Virginia University Athletics opened its 2025 football season with a 31-24 victory over Coastal Carolina at Milan Puskar Stadium in Morgantown, delivering a dramatic finish that kept the Mountaineers unbeaten in the early going.
A Strong Start
The Mountaineers jumped out to a commanding 24-0 lead by halftime, a surge fueled by rushing touchdowns from Cam Cook and Michael Hawkins Jr., who together accounted for 245 rushing yards and 132 passing yards, each adding a pair of scores.
Despite the early cushion, Coastal Carolina answered in the third quarter with a 99-yard drive that culminated in a touchdown, and later narrowed the gap to 31-14 after Michael Hawkins Jr. punched in a short run from the 11-yard line and kicker Jack Cassidy converted a field goal.
The Mountaineers’ defense held firm in the second half, limiting the visitors to just 52 rushing yards and 52 total yards after the break, while a late 31-yard field goal by Cassidy sealed the 31-24 result.
The win marked the 195th career victory for head coach Rich Rodriguez, underscoring his longevity and success at the helm of West Virginia’s program.
During the contest, defensive back Darius Wiley suffered a significant leg injury in a scrum and required on-field medical attention, a setback that will be monitored as the season progresses.
Before kickoff, the program honored Pat White by retiring his jersey, a tribute that highlighted his lasting impact on the Mountaineers’ football history.
The game attracted an announced crowd of 54,108 fans, filling the stadium to capacity and creating a lively atmosphere that persisted through the final whistle.
Looking ahead, West Virginia will travel to face Tennessee-Martin next Saturday at the same venue, eager to build on the momentum generated by the season‑opening win.