Wvu Defensive Struggles

Battles Across the Two Deep for WVU Defense

WVU Defensive Struggles

The West Virginia University (WVU) defense has faced significant challenges in recent seasons, struggling to contain opposing offenses. The reasons for these struggles are multifaceted, including a lack of depth and experience, as well as schematic issues.

Lack of Depth and Experience

WVU's defense has been plagued by a lack of depth, particularly in the secondary. In 2022, the Mountaineers lost several key defensive backs to graduation and the transfer portal, leaving them with a thin and inexperienced group of players. This lack of depth has forced WVU to rely on young and unproven players, who have often struggled to make an impact.

In addition to the lack of depth, WVU's defense has also lacked experience. Many of the players in the secondary are playing significant snaps for the first time, and they have made mistakes that have cost the Mountaineers dearly. For example, in a 48-10 loss to Pittsburgh in 2022, WVU's secondary allowed the Panthers to complete 24 of 33 passes for 336 yards and four touchdowns.

Schematic Issues

WVU's defensive struggles can also be attributed to schematic issues. The Mountaineers have been slow to adjust to opposing offenses, and they have often been out of position and unable to make plays. This has been particularly evident in the pass defense, where WVU has struggled to defend against teams that spread the field and throw the ball around.

For example, in a 31-24 loss to Texas in 2022, WVU's defense allowed the Longhorns to complete 12 of 18 passes for 226 yards and three touchdowns. Texas was able to exploit WVU's lack of depth in the secondary by spreading the field and throwing the ball to open receivers.

Addressing the Issues

WVU's defensive struggles are a cause for concern, but the Mountaineers are taking steps to address the issues. They have brought in several new players via the transfer portal, and they are working on improving their schematic approach. These changes should help WVU's defense improve in 2023 and beyond.

Here are some specific steps that WVU is taking to address the issues with their defense:

• Adding Depth: WVU has added several new players to their secondary via the transfer portal, including cornerback Wesley McCormick and safety Jacolby Spells. These players are expected to provide some much-needed depth and experience to the defense.
• Improving the Schematic: WVU is also working on improving their schematic approach by using more aggressive blitzes and coverages. This should help the Mountaineers to put more pressure on opposing quarterbacks and create more turnovers.
• Developing the Young Players: WVU is also focused on developing their young players and getting them more experience on the field. This is a long-term process, but it is essential for the Mountaineers to build a strong foundation for the future.

Conclusion

WVU's defense has faced significant challenges in recent seasons, but the Mountaineers are taking steps to address the issues. They have added new players, are working on improving their schematic approach, and are focused on developing their young players. These changes should help WVU's defense improve in 2023 and beyond.