If WVU was left Marshall level talent from the previous coach then WVU should be predty good considering Marshall is undefeated, beat a common opponent worse, has been ranked and defeated a top 25 opponent this season with a WV QB no less.
What really happened at WVu was Brown chased off numerous starters and contributors right off the bat, brought in some poor choice replacements and has proceeded with his Kragthorpe of WVUs program.
He had plenty of returning talent, but mamnaged the third worst rushing in D1 last year and has cut the offensive output by half. The defense is worse than it was under the previous staff as well.
Since having someone who " hint hint" " fits the culture" is more important to influencers than say winning football games, expect WVU football to be in the dregs for some time to come, although a third losing season next year and the calls will come.
Marshall didnt play 2nd, 3rd, & 4th stringers for the ENTIRE second half vs EKU. Again, framework. Where was this returning talent? Major contributors left.... Kenny Robison got caught cheating & Simms had an attitude problem, which he had problems when DH was there too, so thats not on NB.. Anytime a new coach comes in, esp those with higher expectations, youll lose players that dont buy in, which is probably best to maintain team chemistry.
We had the youngest team in ALL of D1 last year, which means we are still a very young team. Take a look at the roster, approx 70 of the approx 110 players are Fresh & Soph, and many of them are getting significant playing time. The type of recruiting DH did in 2017 and 2016 is a major reason why the current team is lead by underclassmen. What culture are you talking about, attention to detail, program building, recruiting, player development, cause all those are vastly improved under NB. At some point, you have to deploy concepts that your players can execute, nothing but time & pressure will change that.
When the 2020 class are in middle of their Junior year, thats when Ill start seriously analyzing offensive prowess. NOBODY expected much this year, I mean, look at this team. How many upperclassmen NFL caliber players are playing major roles? Also, you keep saying the Defense is worse, and anybody with a brain knows better. Defense stats is often negatively effected when the offense is poor. If you dont think offense can effect defensive metrics, then you simply do not understand football.. Bottom line, its week 3 of year 2 under a staff who is obviously far more focused on improving the talent level & building for long term success. #PATIENCEPAYS
You are def not a fan, just here to stir the pot and try to create a rift in the fanbases support of our current staff, Im not buying it.