Between The Eers: Serious Issues Mounting for West Virginia’s Rushing Attack

Injuries are piling up for the West Virginia Mountaineers early in the season, particularly in the running back room. To everyone’s surprise, Tye Edwards was unable to play this past weekend against Kansas, and despite being a game-time decision for that game, his status for this week’s matchup versus Utah remains in question.

“Hopeful might be too much,” Rodriguez responded when asked about Edwards’ status. “I’m more… he’s probably still doubtful right now with his hip pointer. He’s trying to. It’s not where he’s wanting to sit out. He’s a kid that really wants to play.”

Rodriguez also noted that Cyncir Bowers is in the concussion protocol and is also questionable for Saturday’s game.

So, what in the heck do the Mountaineers manufacture a rushing attack against a Utah defense that allows just over 110 yards on the ground per game? It’s a great question, especially given the Mountaineers’ offensive line struggles.

As far as available backs, WVU will have Clay Ash, Diore Hubbard, Tyler Jacklich, and Andre Devine. Those four have combined to rush for 127 yards on 38 carries, averaging 3.3 yards per tote. Ferris State transfer Kannon Katzer is still working his way back from injury, but his status as of this morning is unknown. If it is just those four aforementioned backs, WVU may have to get creative with Rodney Gallagher III and maybe go as far as starting Jaylen Henderson at quarterback to make Utah respect the threat of him pulling it and keeping it.

On today’s episode of Between The Eers, I discuss this huge problem the Mountaineers may have in the run game.

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Recent Between The Eers episodes:

WVU’s Painfully Bad Offense Needs to Make Some Changes

Did One Game Flip the Narrative on WVU Entering Big 12 Play?

A Night West Virginia Needed

West Virginia Found Its Identity in Backyard Brawl Win

MORE STORIES FROM WEST VIRGINIA ON SI

Rodriguez Candid on Why WVU’s Offense is Struggling and What Must Change

Why Scotty Fox Didn’t Play vs. Kansas and What He Needs to Do to Take the Next Step

Rich Rodriguez Shares His Message to the Team Following Embarrassing Loss to Kansas

Offensive Line Shakeup Could Be Coming Soon for West Virginia Football

Everything Rich Rodriguez Said on His Radio Show Monday Night Following Kansas Loss