West Virginia University’s football program has been home to a string of standout talents who have earned consensus All‑American recognition over the past century. A recent retrospective ranks the six players whose performances topped the list, offering a glimpse into the Mountaineers’ enduring impact on college football.
The honorees
The list begins with Darius Stills, a defensive lineman whose 2020 season earned high praise from then‑Baylor coach Matt Rhule. Stills anchored the line with relentless pressure, establishing himself as a cornerstone of WVU’s defense.
Next is Wyatt Milum, whose three‑year stretch at left tackle saw him surrender no sacks, a rarity that cemented his reputation as one of the most reliable linemen in school history.
Beanie Bishop burst onto the scene in 2023, leading the nation in pass breakups and defended passes. His ball‑hawking skills helped the Mountaineers tighten a secondary that had struggled in previous seasons.
Grant Wiley, a linebacker from the early 2000s, compiled eye‑catching tackle numbers and forced fumbles that underscored his disruptive presence. His statistical dominance remains a benchmark for defensive producers at WVU.
Dan Mozes, a center, earned the Rimington Award in 2006, a testament to his mastery of the offensive line’s most critical position. His consistency helped shape a balanced attack that powered the Mountaineers’ offense.
Steve Slaton occupies the pinnacle of the ranking. As the consensus top All‑American, Slaton combined rushing and receiving prowess, amassing over 2,000 yards from scrimmage in a single season and earning a place among the program’s all‑time greats.
Numbers to be retired
The upcoming retirements of Pat White and Steve Slaton underscore the program’s reverence for its legends. White’s jersey will be raised on September 5, following the earlier honor bestowed upon Slaton, marking a rare double celebration of Mountaineer excellence.
Although Pat White and Tavon Austin were omitted from the consensus All‑American list, their contributions remain indelible in WVU lore, illustrating that greatness can transcend statistical accolades.
Together, these players illustrate a century of competitive spirit, strategic innovation, and community pride that continues to shape West Virginia’s football identity.