The Homecoming King: Rich Rodriguez’s Journey Back to West Virginia
Some things in life just have a way of feeling right. For Rich Rodriguez, coaching at his alma mater, West Virginia University, is one of them. From 2001 to 2007, Rodriguez led the Mountaineers to unprecedented heights, thanks to his innovative spread option offense, spearheaded by quarterback Pat White and running back Steve Slaton. The team was on the cusp of greatness, coming agonizingly close to playing in the National Championship Game in 2007.
A Bittersweet Departure
However, Rodriguez’s departure from West Virginia was marred by controversy. After denying rumors of leaving for Alabama in 2006, he shocked the fan base by taking the head coaching job at Michigan, leaving behind a trail of bad blood with the administration and fans. The wounds of his departure took time to heal, but ultimately, fate had other plans.
The Wilderness Years
Rodriguez’s tenure at Michigan was tumultuous, to say the least. He lasted only three years, leading the Wolverines to NCAA sanctions and missing a bowl game for the first time in 33 seasons. He was eventually let go in 2011 and landed at the University of Arizona six months later. His initial success at Arizona was followed by accusations of misconduct, leading to his departure in 2018.
A Glimmer of Hope
After a brief stint as the offensive coordinator at Ole Miss, Rodriguez found himself at UL-Monroe, a far cry from his glory days at West Virginia. However, he persevered, taking an analyst role in Hawaii before becoming the head coach at Jacksonville State in 2021. It was here that Rodriguez staged an incredible comeback, leading the Gamecocks to back-to-back Conference USA championships in 2023 and 2024.
Full Circle
Seventeen years after his initial departure, Rodriguez has finally returned to Morgantown, where he belongs. His journey, marked by twists and turns, has ultimately led him back to the place where his heart remains. It’s a testament to his dedication to the coaching profession and his unwavering passion for West Virginia University.
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