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West Virginia's opener produced 9 conversions on 18 third downs, with Mike Hawkins completing all eight third-down passes and rushing for 110 yards. That is an encouraging first-game change from a 2025 offense ranked No. 132 in third-down conversion rate, not yet proof the improvement will hold against stronger opponents.

Cam Cook supplied a 74-yard run and nine forced missed tackles, per the article's PFF figures. WVU nevertheless debuted 19 team starters against Coastal Carolina; seven true freshmen played, including left tackle Kevin Brown. The explosive rushing start came with substantial lineup turnover.

WVU recorded five sacks in its opener. Next opponent UT Martin entered this preview with no sacks allowed and no touchdown passes through a 1-1 start, while running back Tommy Ansley had five rushing touchdowns. Those early opponent splits point to a different test for WVU's front, rather than establishing a projected score.

Jack Cassidy generated touchbacks on all six WVU kickoffs in the opener. UT Martin is also a specific special-teams concern: the preview credits it with an FCS-leading eight blocked kicks last season and two already this season.