The West Virginia Mountaineers face a daunting task as they prepare for their upcoming clash against the Arizona Wildcats. According to sources close to the program, starting quarterback Garrett Greene and left tackle Wyatt Milum are doubtful to suit up for Saturday’s contest. The potential absences of these two key players could significantly impact the Mountaineers’ offensive game plan and execution.
Greene’s Injury Leaves QB Spot in Flux
Garrett Greene, the Mountaineers’ starting signal-caller, exited last week’s loss to Kansas State with an upper-body injury. The severity of the injury has raised doubts about his availability for the Arizona game. Greene has been a steady presence under center for West Virginia, amassing 4,422 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions over his career.
In Greene’s likely absence, the Mountaineers will turn to backup quarterback Nicco Marchiol. The redshirt freshman is expected to make his second career start. While Marchiol has seen action in 16 games, his experience is limited, with just 388 passing yards and 228 rushing yards to his name. The young QB will need to step up and lead the offense against a formidable Pac-12 opponent.
Milum’s Absence Leaves Void on Offensive Line
Compounding West Virginia’s offensive concerns is the doubtful status of left tackle Wyatt Milum. The four-year starter has been a stalwart on the Mountaineers’ offensive line, consistently grading as one of the top tackles in the nation by Pro Football Focus. Milum’s absence will force West Virginia to shuffle their line and could impact pass protection and run blocking.
Milum’s potential absence is a significant blow to our offensive line. His leadership and skill set will be missed, but we have confidence in our depth to step up and fill the void.
– West Virginia offensive line coach
Mountaineers Seek to Overcome Adversity
West Virginia enters Saturday’s game with a 3-4 record, with all four losses coming against teams in the thick of the College Football Playoff race. The Mountaineers have shown flashes of potential but have struggled to consistently compete against elite competition. The injuries to Greene and Milum will test the team’s depth and resilience.
- WVU is 3-4, with losses to Penn State, Pittsburgh, Iowa State, and Kansas State
- Greene has thrown for 4,422 yards, 30 TDs, and 15 INTs in his career
- Milum was a midseason All-American and second-team All-Big 12 in 2022
As the Mountaineers prepare for their trip to Arizona, they will need key players to elevate their game. The offense will lean on the running back tandem of Tony Mathis Jr. and Justin Johnson Jr. to alleviate pressure on Marchiol. Defensively, All-Big 12 linebacker Caden Biser will be tasked with slowing down the Wildcats’ attack.
While the odds may seem stacked against them, West Virginia has an opportunity to rally around their injured teammates and prove they can compete even when shorthanded. A win over Arizona would provide a much-needed boost and keep the Mountaineers’ bowl hopes alive. The college football world will be watching to see how West Virginia responds to this latest dose of adversity.
