2003 Preseason Honors
July 21, 2003 03:35 PM | General
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MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – As the final days of July head into August, it’s time to review what others are saying about Mountaineer football as West Virginia heads into camp to begin preparation to face nationally ranked Wisconsin on Saturday, Aug. 30 at Mountaineer Field. Team Rankings: No. 22 (Preview Sports) Athlon’s "West Virginia has the runners. The question is whether Rich Rodriguez’ faith in his rebuilt offensive line is warranted. Also, Mountaineer quarterback Rasheed Marshall and his receiving corps have to improve the passing game. If they can, West Virginia should again have success." Preview Sports "West Virginia has made their comebacks and had their share of surprises since the BIG EAST began round-robin play. Now fans are hoping that they can maintain their momentum and stay on top of the BIG EAST." Street & Smith’s "Three Division I-A teams improved by six victories from the 2001 season. West Virginia was one of them, a fact that surprised most every one – probably the folks at West Virginia as well. Now the question becomes: Was it smoke and mirrors or did West Virginia really become that good? The evidence points to the Mountaineers being that good." Inside Players College Football Guide "Hats off to the open-minded (Rich) Rodriguez for adapting his preferred mode of attack to a power running game. Deploying his offensive weapons to best advantage, he manufactured a 9-4 season, not too shabby considering the Mounties were coming off a 3-8 campaign and were picked to finish sixth in the BIG EAST this year. We anticipate more of the same this year." Sporting News "The Mountaineers’ 2002 performance is a tough act to follow, especially with a lot of key personnel gone. However, Marshall and Wiley could lead West Virginia back to a bowl game, especially with players accustomed to the offensive and defensive schemes." Lindy’s "West Virginia got back on track last fall. The Mountaineers mined the most out of their available talent, finishing the regular season with dramatic road wins over Virginia Tech and Pittsburgh. It could be difficult to match last year’s success, but look for the Mountaineers to win seven or eight games and go bowling again." Individual Honors: Grant Wiley/LB
Tim Brown/OT
Rasheed Marshall/QB Quincy Wilson/RB
Jahmile Addae/S Miquelle Henderson/WR
Brian King/CB |
