I'm obviously excited about the Old Gold & Blue's upcoming season. After watching some of the Big 12 preview videos and reading recap articles, a few predictions have come to mind:
- Skyler Howard was not highly recruited in the state of Texas and has a large chip on his shoulder. I like that he has added motivation against the likes of Baylor, Texas Tech, and Texas. Howard will lead the Mountaineers to beat 2 out of the 3 in 2015.
- Although Shelton Gibson has received high praise from Coach Holgorsen, I predict Dakiel Shorts will lead the team in number of receptions, and maybe total yards. The stipulation is that Gibson is a deep threat and Howard has a gunslinger mentality. Gibson will be the recipient of 8-10 30+ pass plays this year.
- The "D" is back in the Mountain State. We have talent, we have depth, and we have a DC that will turn them loose more times than not. A significant increase in turnover margin and # of sacks will occur.
- Barring injury, Rushel Shell will rush for 1,000 yards. In an odd twist of events, the passing game at West Virginia will open up the running game in 2015. Smallwood will play RB and in the slot, will be in the top 3 at seasons' end in receptions, and will rush for ~500 yards.
- Two of West Virginia's wins will come in the last few seconds from Josh Lambert. Predictions for these wins are @ TCU and two weeks later hosting Texas.