By: James Gravley | WV Sports Chat
Khalil Wilkins, a redshirt freshman quarterback for the West Virginia Mountaineers, emerged as a bright spot in an otherwise dismal 48-14 loss to Utah on September 27, 2025. Based on his recent performance and the team’s desperate need for a spark, I feel he deserves the starting nod for Friday’s road game at BYU. Here are three reasons why:
1. He Provided a Much-Needed Offensive Lift in Limited Action
– Wilkins entered the game at halftime with WVU trailing 28-0 and the offense stagnant under starter Jaylen Henderson (3-for-7, 22 yards passing, 28 rushing yards on 13 carries).
– While the final score didn’t reflect it, Wilkins moved the chains consistently, including a key drive with running back Diore Hubbard that kept Utah’s defense honest. This was a clear upgrade from the first half’s futility, where WVU managed just 45 total yards.
2. The Current QB Situation Is Unsustainable
– Nicco Marchiol, the presumptive starter, has been sidelined by a foot injury since the Kansas game and wasn’t in uniform against Utah. His return to WVU appears to be in limbo.
– Henderson’s debut start exposed his inexperience against Big 12 defenses—he held the ball too long, leading to sacks and stalled drives. With injuries plaguing the skill positions (e.g., RB Jahiem White and WR Jaden Bray both out for the season), WVU can’t afford another conservative, low-output performance on the road.
– Wilkins can avoid pass rushers with his legs. Which BYU will bring pressure as they are one of the top-ranked defense not only in the Big 12 but all of college football.
3. He’s a Better Long-Term Fit for Rodriguez’s Offense
– Wilkins committed to WVU under Neal Brown for his dual-threat style but translates even better to Rodriguez’s run-heavy, RPO-based attack—evident in his yards per carry average against Utah.
– As a former three-star recruit ranked No. 22 nationally at QB by ESPN, Wilkins has the arm talent (strong deep ball) and athleticism (4.6-second 40-yard dash) to grow into a starter. His redshirt year in 2024 preserved eligibility, and early buzz from camp highlighted his rapid development alongside fellow young QB Scotty Fox Jr.
– Post-game analysis from Rodriguez emphasized “finding positives,” and Wilkins was the clear one on offense. A start against BYU gives him reps to build confidence without the pressure of a must-win, potentially stabilizing the position for the final seven games.
In short, Wilkins isn’t a miracle worker for a banged-up, under-talented roster, but he showed more upside in one half than the starters have all season. Give the kid the wheel—WVU has nothing to lose and a glimmer of hope to gain.
Photo: Ben Queen-Imagn Images / Ben Queen-Imagn Images
