Image Source: West Virginia University Athletics
The upcoming clash between West Virginia and Kansas promises to be an electrifying opening for both teams in their Big 12 Conference season. Following their exhilarating 31-24 overtime victory against arch-rival Pitt, the Mountaineers are rejuvenated and ready to tackle the challenge at Kansas.
Exciting Rematch: West Virginia vs Kansas
Tonight’s game is set against the backdrop of last year’s nail-biting encounter where West Virginia snatched victory from the jaws of defeat, overcoming an 11-point deficit. In a dramatic finish, wide receiver Rodney Gallagher III made a 15-yard touchdown catch, sealing the game with just 26 seconds remaining.
West Virginia’s Road Challenges
As the Mountaineers roll into Lawrence, Kansas, they do so with the knowledge of their historical advantage, boasting an 11-2 overall record against the Jayhawks. Nevertheless, Kansas is hungry for revenge after last year’s 32-28 loss in Morgantown. This time, they will be looking to leverage home-field advantage at the David Booth/Kansas Memorial Stadium, which has undergone renovations.
Quarterback Jalon Daniels is a significant threat for the Jayhawks. His previous performance against the Mountaineers in 2022 saw him accumulate 304 yards of total offense and three touchdowns. He’ll be supported by a strong backfield, highlighted by running back Daniel Hishaw Jr., who performed commendably last season, totaling three touchdowns in just two games against West Virginia.
A Battle of Talented Rosters
The matchup is further complicated by the improvement of Kansas’s offense over recent games. Operating under new offensive coordinator Jim Zebrowski, the Jayhawks have averaged nearly 174 rushing yards per game this season. In contrast, West Virginia’s defense ranks highly in multiple categories, including third-down conversions, making for an intriguing showdown.
- West Virginia has held opponents to under 130 rushing yards in eight of their last 16 games.
- They are currently ranked first in the nation for red zone offense, successfully scoring in all ten opportunities this season.
- Rich Rodriguez, the head coach for West Virginia, now sits second on the school’s all-time win list, only trailing Hall of Fame coach Don Nehlen.
As both teams prepare, the historic rivalry adds a layer of excitement. West Virginia aims to capitalize on a revitalized squad eager to extend their winning streak, while Kansas seeks redemption after their heartbreaking loss last season.
The Kickoff and Broadcast
This evening’s kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. and will be broadcasted nationally on FS1, with the Mountaineer Sports Network airing their coverage starting at 3 p.m. Fans across West Virginia, as well as those tuning in from afar, are gearing up for a can’t-miss battle that holds significant stakes for both teams as they launch their Big 12 campaigns.
Key Players to Watch
Expect thrilling performances from:
Rodney Gallagher III – Critical during last season’s rivalry win, capable of changing the game.
Jalon Daniels – A force at quarterback, with the ability to produce plays when it matters most.
Daniel Hishaw Jr. – A powerful running back who has historically been effective against West Virginia’s defense.
As the West Virginia Mountaineers face off against the Kansas Jayhawks, fans can look forward to an electrifying atmosphere filled with anticipation, strategy, and the fierce will to win. The stage is set, and the countdown has begun for this thrilling Big 12 opener.
FAQ
When is the West Virginia vs Kansas game?
The game kicks off at 6 p.m. today.
Where can I watch the West Virginia vs Kansas game?
The game will be televised on FS1 and covered by the Mountaineer Sports Network.
What is the historical record between West Virginia and Kansas?
West Virginia leads the series with an 11-2 record overall against Kansas.
Who are the key players to watch in tonight’s game?
Key players include Rodney Gallagher III, Jalon Daniels, and Daniel Hishaw Jr.
What are the stakes for both teams in this matchup?
Both teams are looking to start their Big 12 season on a strong note, with Kansas seeking revenge and West Virginia aiming to maintain momentum from last week’s victory.
