Four Key Factors That Could Lead WVU to a Big 12 Title Run
While West Virginia’s chances to win the Big 12 Conference in 2025 are seen as long shots, there are a few important things the Mountaineers can do to position themselves as contenders. Here are four key areas to focus on this season if they want to make a run for the title in their first year:
1. Maintain a Turnover Margin of +0.75 or Better
Instead of just talking about winning the turnover battle, let’s look at what the last four Big 12 champions averaged in this department. The average turnover margin for Arizona State, Texas, Kansas State, and Baylor was +0.75 per game. Texas was the only outlier with +0.4, while the other teams posted +0.8 and +1. For context, Oklahoma’s defense, despite a 0 turnover margin, still ranked 29th in takeaways per game (1.7). So, if West Virginia can stay at or above this turnover margin, they’ll be in solid shape.
2. Score Over 32 Points Per Game
While defense is important, an offense that can score is crucial for a championship run. For the past four Big 12 champions, the average points per game was 32.4. In recent years, West Virginia has struggled to hit this mark, with averages under 30 in each season since 2024. To be competitive, the Mountaineers will need to improve their offensive output, which will be challenging given the new faces and offensive schemes. But hitting the 32+ mark would put them in championship contention.
3. Rank in the Top 30 in Passer Rating
The quarterbacks of the last four Big 12 champions weren’t necessarily putting up gaudy numbers, but they were efficient. Their combined passer rating was 151.2, which would rank around 30th nationally. This means that WVU’s quarterback—whether it’s Nicco Marchiol, Jaylen Henderson, or whoever wins the job—doesn’t need to be a superstar. They simply need to play within the offense, make smart decisions, and avoid turnovers. If they can do that, they’ll be fulfilling their role in the team’s success.
4. Be in the Top 15 Nationally Against the Run
While defending the pass is every defensive coordinator’s dream, it’s tough to consistently stop dynamic quarterbacks and receivers. However, all four of the last Big 12 champs were elite against the run. Three of them (Arizona State, Texas, and Baylor) ranked in the top 15 in rushing yards allowed per game. West Virginia’s defense can take a page out of their book, and with Zac Alley’s aggressive defensive style, they have a good shot. Last year, Oklahoma was 18th in rushing yards allowed, and Alley’s Jacksonville State team ranked 18th in his one season there at the FBS level. Being strong against the run could make a significant difference for the Mountaineers.
If West Virginia hits these four marks, they’ll be well on their way to being a Big 12 title contender this season.
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