Opponent: West Virginia
Record: 2-1
Threat level (1-10): 7
Rundown:
If the Mountaineers can find a way to hold onto the football, they could be a pretty good team this year. Through just three games, they have coughed up four fumbles and three interceptions and rank 124th in the FBS in turnovers lost.
Takeaways proved to be the difference-maker in week one. West Virginia was perfectly capable of knocking off Maryland, going 4-5 in the red zone and starting with terrific field position after 217 return yards. But a muffed kickoff return and a pair of Jarret Doege interceptions spotted the Terrapins an extra three possessions and the 30-24 win.
Much like Oklahoma against Tulane and Nebraska, West Virginia grabbed a big lead against Virginia Tech before the Hokies clawed their way back into it. The passing game dried up in the second half, and the Mountaineers survived by bludgeoning VT quarterback Braxton Burmeister with six sacks.
Strength: Rush defense
WVU allows a meager 2.6 yards per rushing attempt.
Weakness: Ball security
At -6, the Mountaineers hold the second-worst turnover margin in the FBS.
Monitor:
Redshirt freshman quarterback Garrett Green. Head coach Neal Brown likes to incorporate him in running situations.