By: Jonathan K. Martin | WV Sports Chat
As West Virginia prepares to face the Ohio Bobcats in Athens, Ohio, the Mountaineers are preparing for what could be a deceptively challenging early-season matchup.
With Rich Rodriguez back at the helm for WVU, the Mountaineers are looking to improve to 2-0 on the season after beating Robert Morris last week in their season opener.
Meanwhile, Ohio is coming off a strong 2024 season and gave Rutgers fits last week on the road.
Here are three bold predictions for this intriguing Week 2 clash.
WVU’s Defense Forces Three Turnovers, Including an Interception
Under new defensive coordinator Zac Alley, West Virginia’s defense is expected to play with an aggressive edge, blitzing frequently to disrupt opposing offenses. Ohio, coming off an 11-win season but adjusting to a new head coach after Tim Albin’s departure, may face growing pains with quarterback Parker Navarro leading the charge. Navarro’s dual-threat ability is dangerous, but WVU’s aggressive scheme could force him into mistakes.
The Mountaineers’ defense capitalizes on Ohio’s inexperience, forcing three turnovers – with one of those turnovers being an interception. This defensive performance will quiet concerns about WVU’s back-end vulnerabilities and prove Alley’s unit is ready to make a statement.
Nicco Marchiol Throws for 300 Yards and Three Touchdowns
Quarterback Nicco Marchiol, now firmly entrenched as WVU’s starter, is expected to thrive in Rodriguez’s up-tempo spread offense. Against Ohio’s defense, which gave up 252 yards through the air last week against Rutgers, Marchiol could exploit mismatches with his arm. Expect him to spread the ball to receivers like Cam Vaughn and tight end Grayson Barnes, who should find soft spots in Ohio’s zone coverages.
Marchiol lights up the Bobcats for 300 passing yards and three touchdowns, including a deep ball to Vaughn for over 50 yards. His performance will showcase his growth as a passer and quiet any lingering doubts about WVU’s quarterback play heading into Big 12 competition.
WVU Will Start Stronger Against Ohio University Than Against Robert Morris
In their 2025 season opener against Robert Morris, West Virginia secured a 45-3 victory but struggled early. The Mountaineers’ offense sputtered in the first half, managing only 10 points as they adjusted to Rodriguez’s up-tempo spread system.
The sluggish start against Robert Morris likely served as a reality check for Rodriguez’s squad. With a week to iron out kinks, the WVU staff will emphasize a faster start. Expect the Mountaineers to execute cleaner plays early, with fewer penalties and sharper play-calling to exploit Ohio’s defense early.
