Rich Rodriguez takes the reins again at West Virginia

In December 2024, Rich Rodriguez was hired as the head football coach at West Virginia University, marking his return to the program 17 years after his controversial departure to Michigan. This announcement came from athletic director Wren Baker, who expressed confidence in Rodriguez’s commitment to bettering West Virginia football. Rodriguez had previously coached at Jacksonville State, where he enjoyed success, but his tenure at Michigan ended poorly with a 15-22 record. Following his time at Michigan, he led Arizona with a more successful record, though he faced his share of challenges, including allegations of misconduct that led to his firing in 2018. Rodriguez’s return is seen with mixed feelings among the West Virginia fanbase due to his past exit, which included a lawsuit from the university attempting to recoup his buyout. As he takes the helm, Rodriguez aims to rebuild the program and help it finally qualify for the Big 12 championship, a goal not accomplished since joining the conference in 2012. The announcement was made at a live event that was broadcast by ESPN’s Pat McAfee, a former player from West Virginia, indicating significant interest in Rodriguez’s second stint at the university.