West Virginia University (WVU) has parted ways with head coach Neal Brown following a disappointing 6-6 season in the Big 12. Athletic director Wren Baker announced the decision, wishing Brown and his family well in their future endeavors.
In his six seasons at West Virginia, Brown accumulated a record of 37-35 but struggled to make a significant impact on the program, with no conference title contention or rankings in the AP Top 25 during his tenure. His teams faced challenges against ranked opponents, suffering nine consecutive losses. As part of the separation, Brown will receive a buyout of $9.5 million for the remaining three years of his contract.
While Baker did not specify who would lead the Mountaineers in their upcoming bowl game, the team is set to learn its bowl opponent next weekend.
Brown’s tenure at WVU had been under scrutiny, especially after the team experienced back-to-back losing seasons, prompting his retention in November 2022, shortly after Baker’s appointment as athletic director. Despite a successful 9-4 season last year, the team reverted to mediocrity, which ultimately contributed to his dismissal.
Throughout the season, West Virginia’s offensive struggles continued, despite having a capable quarterback and strong running backs. The defense ranked poorly in passing yards allowed, and the Mountaineers faced significant struggles at home, losing four games there. Additionally, the team demonstrated inconsistency, winning one week while faltering the next, especially on the road, where they recorded a 13-20 record.
In his comments after the team’s final game, a 52-15 loss to Texas Tech, Brown admitted that the season did not meet expectations but noted positive moments during the year. As he navigated mounting pressure from fans and the media, including a backlash following an unsatisfactory home game, he acknowledged the need for better communication and engagement with supporters.
West Virginia football has been seeking success since its last conference title in 2011, which previously came during a successful stretch in the Big East before transitioning to the Big 12 in 2012.
This decision opens a new chapter for West Virginia football, which could lead to fresh strategies and revitalized energy in the program. The upcoming search for a new head coach presents an opportunity for the Mountaineers to find a leader who can inspire the team and potentially restore its competitive edge in the Big 12.