By: Jonathan K. Martin | WV Sports Chat
West Virginia head coach Rich Rodriguez fought back tears during a post-game interview following the Mountaineers’ thrilling 31-24 overtime victory over rival Pittsburgh in the storied “Backyard Brawl” on Saturday night.
The game itself was a nail-biter. With the score tied, WVU running back Tye Edwards punched in a one-yard touchdown in overtime, and the Mountaineer defense held firm to secure the win.
As the crowd erupted, Rodriguez was immediately approached for an interview, his face a mixture of joy, relief, and raw emotion.
“I’m so happy for our kids, the state of West Virginia,” Rodriguez said. “We got a lot of grit. We got a lot of hard-working people. Don’t ever quit. Don’t ever quit. West Virginia Mountaineers don’t ever quit.”
When asked what made the difference, Rodriguez spoke about the Mountaineers just kept fighting.
“Just kept playing. The longer the game is going to go, the better for West Virginia. God bless the Mountaineers! And God bless West Virginia!”
Photo Credit: Kelsie LeRose WVSN
