LAWRENCE — Kansas football will attempt to end a two-game losing streak Saturday on the road against West Virginia.
The Jayhawks (1-2) are coming off of a 23-20 loss at home against UNLV. The Mountaineers (1-2) are coming off of a 38-34 loss on the road against Pittsburgh. It’s the first time these two sides have matched up since Kansas won in overtime at West Virginia in 2022.
What’s on the mind of Kansas’ coaches ahead of this Big 12 Conference opener? What’s on the mind of the Jayhawks’ players? Ahead of the 11 a.m. (CT) scheduled kickoff, take a look at this scouting report and prediction for the game:
Kansas football’s Lance Leipold previews West Virginia
Kansas head coach Lance Leipold understands West Virginia has faced multiple rivals, so he’s not discounting the Mountaineers because they are 1-2 so far. He also noted how talented the West Virginia quarterback can be, especially with his feet. Much like the Jayhawks, the Mountaineers have a running back duo that will help create a significant test for Kansas.
Jeff Grimes highlights what stands out about West Virginia
Kansas assistant head coach/offensive coordinator Jeff Grimes might be new to the KU coaching staff, but he isn’t new to facing West Virginia with Mountaineers head coach Neal Brown. Grimes, who has a lot of respect for Brown, described West Virginia as tough, physical, and sound. Grimes hopes redshirt junior quarterback Jalon Daniels’ mobility is something the Jayhawks can use to their advantage and is aware of how aggressive the Mountaineers can be up front.
Brian Borland points out what he’s thinking about West Virginia
Kansas defensive coordinator Brian Borland considers West Virginia’s offense similar to that of the offenses the Jayhawks have faced so far this season. Borland highlighted how much experience the Mountaineers have, and the talent along their offensive line. He didn’t only echo what Leipold said about West Virginia’s mobile quarterback, but praised the one-two punch the Mountaineers have at running back — one smaller and faster, and another more physically imposing.
Kansas players discuss West Virginia matchup
Kansas players spoke with a lot of respect about West Virginia.
Jayhawks redshirt senior defensive end Dylan Wudke mentioned how veteran the Mountaineers’ offensive line is, and the balance their offense possesses. He’s not going to lose sight of West Virginia’s physical running back. He thinks it helps Kansas will have faced mobile quarterbacks in back-to-back weeks, but noted the UNLV quarterback was more of a bruising runner and the WVU quarterback is more elusive.
Jayhawks senior offensive lineman Bryce Cabeldue praised the front the Mountaineers have, as well as how much movement West Virginia incorporates. He described it as similar to what Kansas has faced so far this season. However, he outlined it’s important for the Jayhawks to focus on themselves.
Senior running back Devin Neal said the Mountaineers are sound and disciplined, especially at linebacker. He anticipates facing an opponent that is as motivated as Kansas is, after the start it’s had this season. Neal, though, is confident the Jayhawks can get back on track against West Virginia.
Prediction: Kansas 37, West Virginia 27
Kansas has struggled at times this season and is in a situation where it’s definitely in need of a win. The same can be said for West Virginia, but KU is a program that needs this win more than the other. The Jayhawks should be able to persevere here and get their season back on the right track against the Mountaineers.
Jordan Guskey covers the University of Kansas Athletics at The Topeka Capital-Journal. He is the National Sports Media Association’s sportswriter of the year for the state of Kansas for 2022. Contact him at jmguskey@gannett.com or on Twitter at @JordanGuskey.
