WVU Football at Big 12 Media Days: Biggest Takeaways from Rich Rodriguez & Brett Yormark

What were the biggest takeaways from WVU Football at 2026 Big 12 Media Days? In this episode, I break down everything Rich Rodriguez, West Virginia's players, and Big 12 Commissioner Brett Yormark had to say—and what it all means for the future of the Mountaineers and the conference. Coach Rodriguez made headlines by essentially openly wishing for more regional rivalries, envisioning a future where schools like Pitt, Penn State, Virginia Tech, Maryland, Cincinnati, Virginia, and North Carolina play each other every year... and West Virginia would--dare I say it--be part of that "conference" instead. It's a conversation I've been having on this channel for years, and I explain why I think he's absolutely right about the long-term direction of college football. I also discuss: 🏈 My biggest offensive takeaways, including Michael Hawkins vs. Scotty Fox Jr., why WVU aggressively pursued Cam Cook, Kayden Luke's role at fullback, concerns at wide receiver, and what Athlon Sports "confirmed" about the offensive line, post-spring. 🏈 Defensive notes, including Gamiere Latimer's comments and WVU's emphasis on length in the secondary. 🏈 Brett Yormark's vision for the Big 12—what I liked, what I didn't, and why I believe the conference finds itself in an increasingly uncomfortable position as the SEC and Big Ten continue to widen the financial gap. 🏈 Why the proposed Protect College Sports Act, a potential $700 million conference revenue cap, and a possible 24-team College Football Playoff could completely reshape conference realignment once again. Finally, I explain why I believe West Virginia should continue preparing for a future built around regional rivalries and discuss what an ideal conference might look like for the Mountaineers. Let me know your biggest takeaway from Big 12 Media Days in the comments. Did anything Rich Rodriguez or Brett Yormark said change your outlook on WVU Football or the future of the Big 12? If you enjoy thoughtful WVU football analysis, be sure to Like, Subscribe, and join Fox on West Virginia Mountaineer Sports for year-round coverage of the Mountaineers. #HailWV