Football

MORGANTOWN, WV - Last week, WVU Head Coach Neal Brown stopped by the 3 Guys Podcast to talk Mountaineer Sports with Tony Caridi, Brad Howe, and Hoppy Kerchival. Among the many topics discussed on the show was the WVU Men’s Basketball team. Brown, who has been a major supporter of the basketball programs, spoke highly about Interim Head Coach Josh Eilert. https://twitter.com/3guys__/status/1766086593243128197?s=46&t=cXIQ4JQG-pp-P6qrRwLwjw Here is what Brown had to say regarding Eilert: “Josh Eilert is a true Mountaineer…Just so proud of how he’s handled adversity…When I think about Mountaineers or West Virginians just in general, one of the first things that comes to my mind is tough. And you talk about an individual who’s really symbolized that from the time he was placed in charge of the men’s basketball program, it’s been Josh Eilert.” Eilert was tasked with keeping the basketball program together following the departure of Bob Huggins. For the most part, he has done a great job. It’s hard to argue with Brown’s point - Eilert is a true Mountaineer. Fans should be proud of the job that Eilert has done keeping the program above water. (Photo by WVU Athletics) 

MORGANTOWN, WV - Earlier this afternoon, the West Virginia Mountaineers added another piece to their 2024 recruiting class. Nasai Bell, a quarterback from North Caroline High School in Maryland, announced his commitment to WVU via X. https://twitter.com/_nasai5/status/1766554699124142455?s=46&t=cXIQ4JQG-pp-P6qrRwLwjw According to MaxPreps, Bell tallied 697 passing yards and 5 touchdowns to 2 interceptions during the 2023 season. He also accumulated 503 rushing yards and 3 rushing touchdowns. He will be a preferred walk-on for the Mountaineers. Other FBS schools that showed interest in Bell were Temple and Maryland. University of Charleston, Marist College, and John Carroll University offered him scholarships. Bell has no official star rating from any major recruiting outlet. (Photo via WVU Recruiting) 

MORGANTOWN, WV - After rumors surfaced on Monday, Neal Brown and WVU officially agreed on a one-year contract extension on Tuesday morning, per reports. The deal puts Brown in Morgantown through the 2027 season and allows him a larger budget to hire and retain top coaching talent on his staff. Included in the deal is a $400K reduction in Brown’s salary, as well as a reduced buyout from 100% to 75% of his remaining contract. Despite the university and Athletic Director Wren Baker voicing their approval of the decision, many fans have done the opposite. Social media has been filled with a plethora of negativity, with many claiming that Brown has not done anything to “deserve it.” While it is a fair claim given the previous four seasons, the 2023 season cemented Brown’s place in Morgantown for many seasons to come. The trajectory of the program is undoubtedly trending in the right direction. After posting the program’s first 9-win season since 2016, Brown was able to hold onto the bulk of the roster heading into 2024. Players like Garrett Greene, C.J. Donaldson, Jahiem White and Hudson Clement headline a roster that is expected to be a dark horse heading into next season. Without the extra year of security, WVU would run the risk of losing Brown to a bigger school. Should the Mountaineers put together a solid 2024 season, which many believe they will, programs from all across the nation would come knocking for Brown’s services. His departure would certainly result in the loss of much of the young talent that has been established within the program. The players that were listed before, as well as those coming in, are the foundation for future success for the Mountaineer Football program. Losing a head coach in today’s College Football landscape could potentially set a program back several years via the transfer portal. This extension prevents a complete disaster occurring to WVU’s roster in the near future. The “climb” was never meant to be a quick fix in Morgantown. It took five seasons, but things are finally beginning to turn around for Brown and the Mountaineers. The deal is not only evident of WVU’s investment in Brown, but also Brown’s investment into the program. Both sides can see the painting on the wall, and want to stabilize the sleeping giant that is being built in Morgantown. The Mountaineers have finally found their guy. With so many of the pieces falling into place, and the roster developing into one of the best in the Big 12, the decision by West Virginia and Brown to want to “see this through” should be applauded. Sometimes there is more to it than just a win-loss record. (Photo by WVU Athletics) 

MORGANTOWN, West Virginia -- West Virginia head coach Neal Brown has agreed to a one year contract extension. In the contract, Brown will take approximately a $400,000 pay cut per year and his contract buyout will be reduced from 100% to 75%, which means the university will owe Brown significantly less if he is fired prior to the end of his contract. According to the press release from the university: "The extension keeps Brown under contract for the next four years and goes through the 2027 season. "I am pleased with the progress I've seen in our football program since arriving last year," Baker said. "I believe this contract amendment allows us to continue to build on our momentum as we begin our first year in the new and expanded Big 12 Conference. I'm appreciative of the effort Coach Brown and his staff put into developing the young people in our program both on and off the field." Coming off a nine-win season and a victory in the Duke's Mayo Bowl over North Carolina, the extension maintains continuity in the football program and reflects a continued commitment by both sides. "My first priority was retaining and rewarding our assistant coaches and support staff who have played such a critical role in our success," Brown said. "I appreciate Wren's support on that front as well as his continued commitment to me and what we are building. We share a common vision for this program and that alignment is critical to our continued success. There are great things ahead, and I can't wait to see our incredible fans back in Milan Puskar Stadium on August 31." https://twitter.com/WVUfootball/status/1765037645690748971?s=20https://twitter.com/ESPNRittenberg/status/1765034243061649682?s=20 https://twitter.com/ESPNRittenberg/status/1765034243061649682?s=20

MORGANTOWN, West Virginia -- Yes, Neal Brown could be in line for a raise and extension again after the West Virginia Mountaineers finished 9-4 with a bowl win over North Carolina. On yesterday's Sunday Sportsline, it was revealed that West Virginia University and head football coach Neal Brown are "potentially, potentially" in renegotiation talks concerning Brown's contract with the university. "There will be some news on Neal Brown's contract soon. There is word leaking out from sources within MetroNews from the highest of levels that think there are renegotiations going on and that there could be an announcement during the week as to what that new contract could look like. The details are completely unknown, but it's something to keep an eye on moving forward." The hosts went on to say, "If you are a 'Trust the Climber', that's good news. If you are a 'Climber Denier', that is going to raise some eyebrows. You have to take a step back because you can't allow...I mean, Neal Brown can't go out and recruit unless there is some committment. That doesn't mean that Neal Brown's job is safe if the team goes off a cliff next year, but the devil is always in the details. The coach can have a 20 year contract, but if the buyout is minimal, then that's a different story. You saw the Kansas head coach (Lance Leipold) receive a raise recently and is making $7 million a year, so the market value for Power 5, Big 12 Conference head coaches is going up." West Virginia cannot give Neal Brown an extension after leading the football program to the worst 5 year span in over four decades. Brown is 31-29 overall and has only had one acceptable season in Morgantown. With that said, it's likely that Brown will receive a slight raise, perhaps an extension, but his buyout will be restructured so that it's easier for the university to fire him if the team underperforms. With that said, it’s time for West Virginia to play hardball with Neal Brown. Don’t give him an extension. Don’t give him a raise. If he wants to leave because he’s unhappy about it, let him go and see if he can find a better job. The reality is that Neal Brown has zero leverage in his negotiations. No other team in the country will play him $4 million a year to lead their program, and he’s very lucky to even have a job at all. Don’t negotiate with Neal Brown, West Virginia University. Put him in his place and remind him that he’s making $4 million a year more than he should right now. https://twitter.com/voicemorgantown/status/1764733826524213469?s=46  

MORGANTOWN, West Virginia -- Yes, Neal Brown could be in line for a raise and extension again after the West Virginia Mountaineers finished 9-4 with a bowl win over North Carolina. On yesterday's Sunday Sportsline, it was revealed that West Virginia University and head football coach Neal Brown are "potentially, potentially" in renegotiation talks concerning Brown's contract with the university. "There will be some news on Neal Brown's contract soon. There is word leaking out from sources within MetroNews from the highest of levels that think there are renegotiations going on and that there could be an announcement during the week as to what that new contract could look like. The details are completely unknown, but it's something to keep an eye on moving forward." The hosts went on to say, "If you are a 'Trust the Climber', that's good news. If you are a 'Climber Denier', that is going to raise some eyebrows. You have to take a step back because you can't allow...I mean, Neal Brown can't go out and recruit unless there is some committment. That doesn't mean that Neal Brown's job is safe if the team goes off a cliff next year, but the devil is always in the details. The coach can have a 20 year contract, but if the buyout is minimal, then that's a different story. You saw the Kansas head coach (Lance Leipold) receive a raise recently and is making $7 million a year, so the market value for Power 5, Big 12 Conference head coaches is going up." West Virginia cannot give Neal Brown an extension after leading the football program to the worst 5 year span in over four decades. Brown is 31-29 overall and has only had one acceptable season in Morgantown. With that said, it's likely that Brown will receive a slight raise, perhaps an extension, but his buyout will be restructured so that it's easier for the university to fire him if the team underperforms. Although Neal Brown has not gotten the job done as the head coach, a potential raise and extension with a new buyout clause might just be what's best for everyone involved. https://twitter.com/voicemorgantown/status/1764638561926623607?s=20

MORGANTOWN, WV - During WVU’s 81-70 loss to Texas Tech this evening, the 70th Mountaineer mascot was officially named. Braden Adkins from Richwood, West Virginia will be the next to don the coonskin and musket. https://twitter.com/westvirginiau/status/1764096254743613520?s=46&t=cXIQ4JQG-pp-P6qrRwLwjw Adkins takes over for Mikel Hager who has served as WVU’s mascot since 2023. Here is what he had to say about the honor: “The experience I have gained as the alternate mascot has made me fully realize this is my passion. I've loved every minute of my current role, but being named the next Mountaineer will allow me to fully utilize my ability to give back to the people of West Virginia as the spokesperson for both the University and my state." -Article VIA West virginia university Adkins beat out Elijah Jones, Cade Kincaid, and Justin Wayright for the mascot position. He will take over sometime later this year, per WVU. (Photo via West Virginia University) 

MORGANTOWN, WV - Earlier today, former WVU Quarterback Clint Trickett secured his latest coaching job in the Sun Belt Conference. After spending the last three seasons at Marshall, Trickett will join the coaching staff at Georgia Southern as the tight ends/inside receivers coach. He will also be the team’s passing game coordinator. https://twitter.com/gsathletics_fb/status/1763270410819273079?s=46&t=cXIQ4JQG-pp-P6qrRwLwjw Trickett played for the Mountaineers in 2013 and 2014. Compiling an 8-10 record as the starter, he 4,890 yards and 25 passing touchdowns. Stay tuned to The Voice of Motown for updates on the coaching carousel. (Photo by WVU Athletics) 

MORGANTOWN, WV - Neal Brown and the Mountaineers are welcoming yet another familiar face to the coaching staff in 2024. According to Brandon Marcello and Matt Zenitz of 247Sports, WVU is expected to announce the addition of McNeese State’s Ryan Nehlen as an offensive analyst. https://twitter.com/mzenitz/status/1762211799590379846?s=46&t=cXIQ4JQG-pp-P6qrRwLwjw Nehlen, the grandson of Mountaineer legend Don Nehlen, played his collegiate career for the Mountaineers from 2008-2012. He tallied 12 receptions for 101 yards and two touchdowns. He previously spent time on WVU’s staff as an analyst from 2018 to 2021. WVU Assistant Coach Ty Hinson is expected to be hired as the tight ends coach at McNeese State. (Photo by WVU Athletics)   

MORGANTOWN, WV - Earlier today, Daniel Jeremiah, a media analyst for the NFL, revealed his latest NFL Mock Draft for 2024. In this projection, Jeremiah shared his personal choices for the entire first round. This is his second edition of his mock draft this scouting season. Included in his first round mock draft was someone that is very familiar to Mountaineer fans. Zach Frazier, the widely celebrated former center for WVU, was selected by Jeremiah to be chosen 29th overall to the Detroit Lions. https://twitter.com/movethesticks/status/1759968900316275048?s=46&t=cXIQ4JQG-pp-P6qrRwLwjw Here is what Jeremiah had to say about Frazier: “The Lions’ starting guards are scheduled to reach free agency this offseason, and this feels like Dan Campbell’s type of player. Frazier, a state-champion wrestler in high school, could step right in at guard and eventually move to center.” Frazier ended his Mountaineer career with multiple All-Big 12 honors. He played in 47 career games in the Gold and Blue. (Photo by WVU Athletics) 

MORGANTOWN, West Virginia - Yesterday, the West Virginia Mountaineers added former Northwestern defensive back Jaheem Joseph. Joseph spent the last three seasons with the Wildcats, tallying 37 tackles and 3 interceptions. Today, the Mountaineers added his former teammate at Northwestern, Garnett Hollis, Jr. Hollis, a graduate transfer, played in all 13 games for the Wildcats in 2023, finishing the season with 49 tackles, including 3.5 for loss, and an interception. According to On3.com, Hollis is rated as a four star cornerback and one of the top 300 players nationally in college. Neal Brown has made adding depth to the secondary a real priority, and landing both Joseph and Hollis on back to back days is huge for the Mountaineers' defense! https://twitter.com/GarnettHollis/status/1760032296680165484?s=20  

MORGANTOWN, WV - Earlier this afternoon, Neal Brown and the Mountaineers added a piece to their 2024 transfer class. Former Northwestern Defensive Back Jaheem Joseph announced his commitment to the Mountaineers via X. https://twitter.com/lockemupjah_7/status/1759666014319514025?s=46&t=cXIQ4JQG-pp-P6qrRwLwjw Joseph spent the last three seasons with the Wildcats, tallying 37 tackles and 3 interceptions. He will be expected to come in and fill a position in which the Mountaineers are in desperate need of. With four collegiate seasons under his belt, he will come to Morgantown with one year of eligibility remaining. (Photo via Northwestern Athletics) 

MORGANTOWN, WV - WVU Athletic Director Wren Baker has had quite the experience in Morgantown. Arriving at West Virginia University in December of 2022, Baker inherited a mess that only became worse as the year went on. He has not only had to deal with a football program that was on the verge of tanking, but is now in the midst of a controversial coaching search with the men's basketball program. The University of Missouri is now on the trail looking for their next athletic director following the departure of Desiree Reed-Francois to Arizona. Many outlets have started to list candidates who may be closely connected to the job. To the surprise of nobody, Baker has found himself on the wishlist for many Missouri fans. According to Missouri's Rivals website PowerMizzou.com, Baker was listed as their number one candidate for the opening. https://twitter.com/PowerMizzoucom/status/1759639086112121052?s=20https://twitter.com/voicemorgantown/status/1759658686471877061?s=20 Baker previously spent time as the athletic director at North Texas prior to his arrival at West Virginia. He also spent time as the Athletic Director of Missouri State from 2010-2013, and the Deputy Athletic Director at the University of Missouri from 2015-2016. Stay tuned to The Voice of Motown for any updates that may arise regarding the situation. https://twitter.com/voicemorgantown/status/1759658686471877061?s=20 (Photo by WVU Athletics)

MORGANTOWN, WV - In the nearly 44 years of the stadium’s history, only two singers have performed ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ at Milan Puskar Stadium - John Denver and Brad Paisley. Denver was given the honor of being the inaugural performance within the confines when the stadium first opened in 1980. As for Paisley, his opportunity came in September of 2015 prior to a 45-6 victory for the Mountaineers over Maryland. The Mountain State possesses a culture that is proud of country music. So it only makes sense for the university to once again give another artist the chance to perform in front of 60,000 of the best fans in the nation. That artist being Morgantown’s own Charles Wesley Godwin. Godwin has quickly rose to fame following his 2023 album Family Ties which featured his breakout hit ‘Cue Country Roads.’ His rendition of Denver’s ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ was also featured on the album, and has quickly become a fan favorite within West Virginia. The talented Godwin has also proven to be a devout Mountaineer fan, not only graduating from West Virginia University, but even speaking to the team for motivation prior to the 2023 season. https://twitter.com/wvufootball/status/1688628304360747008?s=46&t=cXIQ4JQG-pp-P6qrRwLwjw Nobody deserves this opportunity to join the exclusive group of performers more than Godwin. His heart and souls would undoubtedly be put into every lyric, but that is where the catch comes in… Have him perform his own song. That’s right - Charles Wesley Godwin should be given the opportunity to fire up the crowd with ‘Cue Country Roads’ prior to kickoff for WVU’s season opener against Penn State. August 31st is already expected to be a day with a plethora of festivities with the rivalry making its way back to Morgantown for the first time since 1992. Giving the hometown kid who once dreamed of taking the field with the Mountaineers this once in a lifetime chance would be the perfect beginning to a highly anticipated season. The idea is now out there. The next move is yours, Wren Baker and West Virginia University. Until then…CUE COUNTRY ROADS. (Photo via Clark Johnson - VOM)