With the announcement today that West Virginia will move from the Big East to the Big XII, Crystal Ball Run’s Regie Eller tracked down Mountaineers play-by-play man Tony Caridi to get his take, from within the state and program’s borders.
Here are Five Burning Questions, West Virginia style:
1. With the news breaking today that it is now impending that West Virginia will join the Big-12 following Missouri’s move to the SEC. What are your initial reactions?
The overall reaction is positive. Unfortunately, the instability of the Big East Conference and its AQ status forced the move. The Big East has allowed WVU to enjoy great success. It’s won or shared six conference football titles and won two BCS bowl games. It’s also allowed the Mountaineers to have its greatest basketball success in over 50 years. WVU has become a perennial NCAA tournament team and advanced to the Final Four in 2010.
2. Is West Virginia a better fit for the Big 12?
Yes, in certain areas. I think the passion WVU fans have with their teams is similar to many of the Big 12 schools. There’s a commitment to winning at the highest level. Obviously, WVU is not in the geographical footprint of the Big 12 so travel will present more of a challenge for teams and fans.
3. Thoughts on where this now leaves the Big East?
This will force the Big East into its Plan C, which reportedly will focus on bringing Temple back to the league. The plan is to rebuild as a 12-team conference.
4. Dana Holgorsen is comfortable with the Big 12 and it’s area. Do you see this impacting recruiting – or has Dana and staff already been recruiting the “Big 12 areas”
I think it will move WVU’s recruiting more westerly. We currently have several players from Texas including our starting running back who’s a true freshman. However, WVU has had great success in the state of Florida and I see them to continue working that area because of the many relationships that exist. However, Dana and the staff’s familiarity with the Big 12 will be a plus.
5. Your thoughts on year one under Holgorsen? How would you grade it?
I think it’s above the norm for the first season of a coaching transition. Last week’s loss to Syracuse showed that there’s no way to perfect an offense unless you face certain looks in a game situation. Despite the defeat, WVU still has a legitimate chance at winning the conference title, but they have little margin of error. Overall grade B+ with a chance of moving into a final grade of A.
Follow Regie Eller on Twitter @CFBRocker.
