By: Jonathan K. Martin | WV Sports Chat
West Virginia’s defense has been a force through the early part of the 2025 season, holding opponents to low scores and generating turnovers. As the Mountaineers travel to Lawrence to open up Big 12 play against Kansas, the unit could shine brightly.
Kansas boasts a potent offense, but WVU’s aggressive scheme under defensive coordinator Zac Alley should create chaos.
Here are three bold predictions for the Mountaineers’ defensive performance.
Darrian Lewis Secures His Third Interception in Three Games
Safety Darrian Lewis has been a turnover machine to start the season, already picking off two passes in the last two games —including a crucial red-zone interception against Pitt in the Backyard Brawl. This weekend, Lewis is poised to extend his streak, hauling in his third interception in as many games against Kansas.
The Jayhawks’ quarterback has shown a tendency to force throws under pressure, and Lewis’s ball-hawking instincts and coverage range make him the perfect defender to capitalize.
Jimmori Robinson Notches a Sack in His Mountaineer Debut
After a prolonged eligibility battle, edge defender Jimmori Robinson is finally set to make his WVU debut against Kansas, and he’s predicted to waste no time making an impact with a sack.
The former UTSA standout, who racked up 10.5 sacks last season, brings elite pass-rushing prowess to a Mountaineer front that’s already agressive in the backfield.
With defensive coordinator Zac Alley scheming him into favorable matchups, Robinson’s debut sack would signal the arrival of a game-changer and further elevate WVU’s fearsome pass rush.
WVU Defense Holds Kansas Under 20 Points
The Mountaineers’ defense is built to stifle opponents, and they’re forecasted to keep Kansas’ high-powered offense in check, holding the Jayhawks to fewer than 20 points. WVU has been stout against the run and opportunistic in the pass game, allowing under 15 points per contest so far.
Limiting the Jayhawks to under 20 points would be a statement for WVU’s defense, proving they can travel and dominate in conference play.
