Neal Brown’s tenure as head coach of West Virginia University’s football team has officially come to an end after six seasons, following the team’s disappointing regular-season conclusion with a 6-6 record. The university made the announcement on Sunday after a significant loss to Texas Tech.
In a statement, WVU Athletic Director Wren Baker expressed gratitude towards Brown, acknowledging his character and his contributions to the program and university. Baker remarked, “Coach Brown is a great person and has served as a tremendous ambassador for West Virginia University,” highlighting the respect Brown earned during his time in charge.
Despite Brown’s commitment, the team struggled to make significant progress. He was unable to replicate the success he had achieved during his time at Troy, where he led the Trojans to multiple bowl victories and maintained a strong winning record. At WVU, however, his record includes just three wins against ranked teams in 72 games, and the team seldom appeared competitive at the national level.
The departure will be costly for the university, with Brown owed approximately $10 million due to his contract stipulations.
Moving forward, WVU is optimistic about the future. The team shows potential for improvement, particularly with returning players like quarterback Garrett Greene and defensive lineman Sean Martin. There is a sense of determination within the locker room to strive for a better season in 2024.
The university aims to secure a capable head coach who can lead the Mountaineers to new heights. Baker noted the importance of focusing on the current players as they prepare for their upcoming bowl game, while also expressing confidence in the potential to attract qualified candidates for the coaching position.
Names being considered for the role include Jimbo Fisher, known for his championship pedigree, and former WVU coach Rich Rodriguez, who has had success at Jacksonville State.
With a promising roster and the right leadership, West Virginia University could be on the brink of a turnaround that may reestablish its prominence in college football.
Overall, this transition presents an opportunity for WVU to reinvigorate its program, engage its passionate fan base, and look forward to a successful future.