West Virginia · Big 12West Virginia Will Require Rodriguez’s Hard Edge From Every Player
Rich Rodriguez says toughness and intensity aren’t traits West Virginia can afford to leave to chance. He wants the Mountaineers’ hard edge taught across the roster, provided players are willing to learn what that standard demands.
AUG 23, 2026
01 · The NewsWhat Happened
Rich Rodriguez says every player on West Virginia’s roster must meet the program’s demand for toughness and intensity. Rodriguez refers to that standard as a “hard edge,” a phrase tied to how the Mountaineers want to handle all parts of their work. He also believes the edge can be learned when players are willing to accept the demand. The report does not identify a specific player, position group, drill, practice change, or game plan connected to the comments. For now, Rodriguez is describing the behavior he expects from the entire roster.