By: Clark Johnson | WV Sports Chat
Morgantown, WV – The West Virginia University Mountaineers will welcome the UT-Martin Skyhawks to Morgantown on September 12th. The Skyhawks are an FCS program that competes in the OVC-Big South Association. Under the leadership of Jason Sampson, who will be going into his 21st season with the program in 2026, UT-Martin finished last season with a 6-6 record.
Much like many programs around the nation, the Skyhawks welcomed a plethora of new players this offseason. After signing a recruiting class that totaled 16, Coach Sampson landed 31 prospects out of the NCAA Transfer Portal. While there is certainly plenty of talent within the newcomers, this now poses more questions than answers for the 2026 edition of the Skyhawks.
Offensively, the consensus is that Julian Calvez will get the nod at starting quarterback to begin the season. After spending two seasons at Grambling State, the Florida native transferred to the Skyhawks prior to the 2024 season. To this point in his career, Calvez has seen limited action leading the offense. In 14 appearances, he is 20 of 33 passing for 150 yards and 1 touchdown to 0 interceptions.
The passing game is expected to be bolstered by a talented receiving corps. Leading the way will be redshirt senior Phaizon Wilson. The 6’4” New York native comes with the expectation of taking a huge leap to end his Skyhawk career. In 2025, Wilson accumulated 35 receptions for 450 yards and 1 touchdown.
Northern Illinois transfer Keyshaun Pipkin will also be a player to watch on the outside for the Skyhawks.
Defensively, UT-Martin made strides in 2025. Despite the team finishing 6-6, the unit finished among the best in the conference. Rudy Griffin and T.J. Jefferson return to lead the defense that also brings back several key pieces that held opponents to 109 rushing yards per game – 2nd best in the conference.
PREDICTION
This is not a game that West Virginia fans will have to sweat through. The Mountaineers will take control of this game early, cruising through the second half. Expect over 300 rushing yards and many younger players to get some much needed experience.
West Virginia 55, UT-Martin 13
