By: Clark Johnson | WV Sports Chat
Morgantown, WV – The WVU Football program has been graced with elite quarterback over the years. From Harris to Grier, Mountaineer Nation has witnessed elite talent leading the offense week in and week out. Today, I am going to rank the TOP 5 QUARTERBACKS in the program’s history.
While this is certainly a topic that is up for debate, it should be noted that this is my PERSONAL list. There are no incorrect rankings. I encourage you to share your rankings with us on social media (WV Sports Chat)!
Here are the 5 BEST QUARTERBACKS in the history of WVU Football:
Honorable Mention: Will Grier (2017-2018): Despite barely missing the list, Grier was one of the most clutch signal-callers the Mountaineers have ever seen. The game-winning touchdown and two-point conversion at Texas still plays on loop for countless WVU fans.
5. Rasheed Marshall (2001-2004): When fans think mobile quarterbacks at WVU, they think Pat White – and rightfully so. However, it was Rasheed Marshall that redefined the quarterback position under Coach Rich Rodriguez. The Pennsylvania native appeared in 42 games for the Mountaineers, accounting for 5,098 passing yards, 1,863 rushing yards, and 69 touchdowns. Though Marshall’s records didn’t last long, he deserves more respect than he’s shown by the fanbase.
4. Marc Bulger (1996-1999): One of the best pure passers in WVU history, Marc Bulger left a lasting impression on Mountaineer Nation. Accounting for 8,153 yards and 61 touchdowns, the Pennsylvania native developed into a solid quarterback at the professional level. Bulger had arguably the most stable NFL career out of any signal-caller to come out of WVU.
3. Geno Smith (2009-2012): Statistically, Geno Smith is the most successful quarterback in WVU Football history. Holding various records, including career passing yards (11,662) and passing touchdowns (98), Smith was the product of a fast-paced, highly-productive Dana Holgorsen offense. Had the team experienced more success during his time, he would have likely been higher on this list.
2. Major Harris (1987-1989): Harris might not have the flashy stats of others on this list, but he had the Mountaineers on the cusp of a national championship in 1988. He will forever be remembered as the quarterback who almost got the program over the hump. The legacy of Major Harris will be discussed by Mountaineer Nation for decades to come.
- Pat White (2005-2008): This one is a no-brainer. Pat White put WVU Football on the map. The Alabama native holds countless school records, including career quarterback rushing yards (4,480) and total touchdowns (103). Accompanied by his 4-0 record in bowl games, it is time we have a serious discussion about “retiring 5.”
(Photo by WVU Athletics)
