The West Virginia University football team isn’t taking it easy as it kicks off spring practice for the 2025 season. Head coach Rich Rodriguez made that clear, even joking about the toll it’s already taking on him.
“I mean, my voice is already half gone,” Rodriguez admitted. “Our team chaplain was there he’s probably praying for me right now.”
Here are the key takeaways from Rodriguez’s press conference on Tuesday.
Offensive Evolution
While WVU will implement Rodriguez’s signature offensive system this fall, it has undergone changes since his last tenure in Morgantown.
“A lot of the foundational elements are still there,” Rodriguez explained. “We still play with 11 and heavily involve the quarterback in the run game. But the passing concepts have evolved a bit.”
In the early 2000s, Rodriguez’s offense typically used just one tight end or sometimes none at all. Today, the scheme frequently incorporates one or multiple tight ends throughout the game.
“From a personnel standpoint, that’s probably the biggest shift,” he noted.
Evaluating Players Without Pads
Full-contact practice won’t begin until Saturday, so early evaluations are based on one-on-one and two-on-two drills.
“Right now, it’s about getting a look at the players in different scenarios,” Rodriguez said. “Once the pads come on, we’ll ramp things up even more.”
Roster Challenges and the Impact of New Rules
A potential legal settlement, set for approval in April, could allow athletes to receive direct payments from schools while also capping rosters at 105 players for programs that opt in. With WVU currently carrying between 110 and 120 players, difficult cuts may be on the horizon.
“It’s going to be tough because some guys who have worked hard enough to earn a spot just won’t be able to keep it,” Rodriguez admitted. “It’ll make things even more competitive.”
Rodriguez believes versatility will be key for players looking to secure their place on the team.
“It’s a new challenge, but we’ll handle it just like everyone else,” he concluded.
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