The 2007 West Virginia Mountaineers: A Near-Miss in College Football History

When college football fans recall the most chaotic season, many cite 2007. The year was filled with dramatic upsets, including Appalachian State defeating Michigan. Throughout the season, 62 ranked teams lost to lower or unranked teams, and the No. 2 ranked team fell seven times in the final nine weeks.

Amid this uncertainty, the predictable end saw the SEC and Big Ten powerhouses battle for the national championship in New Orleans. However, there was almost an unexpected finale with a new champion crowned, namely the West Virginia Mountaineers. Their 2007 journey remains one of the sport’s biggest “what if” scenarios.

The West Virginia Mountaineers, without a national title, came close in ’07, cementing their place in history.

West Virginia’s remarkable season stemmed from their strong performance in the mid-2000s. Head coach Rich Rodriguez had implemented his culture and spread-option offense, which paid off by 2004 with Big East co-championships.

In 2005, they achieved an 11-1 record and surprised SEC champion Georgia in the Sugar Bowl. The following year, they achieved another 11-win season, finishing in the top ten of the AP Poll.

Entering 2007, the Mountaineers were seen as national championship contenders with a top-five preseason ranking. Despite an early loss to ranked South Florida, West Virginia remained a title contender.

Their dynamic offense, led by quarterback Pat White, supported by running backs Steve Slaton, Noel Devine, and fullback Owen Schmitt, was a force. They averaged nearly 40 points per game, ranking ninth in the nation, and led in yards per play with 6.2 yards per rush.

As the season progressed, West Virginia dominated opponents. Heading into their final game against Pittsburgh, they ranked second in the BCS polls and first in the USA Today Coaches Poll. Only a win against Pittsburgh in The Backyard Brawl stood between them and the title game.

Pittsburgh, with a 4-7 record and bowl ineligibility, was dismissed as a 28-point underdog. Yet, in an unexpected twist, West Virginia’s offense was held to 183 yards, turned over the ball five times, and they missed two field goals. In a shocking 13-9 defeat, the Mountaineers lost their title game spot.

This upset stung more when West Virginia dominated the Oklahoma Sooners in the Fiesta Bowl. After the season, Rodriguez left for Michigan, unable to replicate previous success.

In 2025, Rodriguez and West Virginia reunited, acknowledging their mutual importance.

The 2007 season stands as one of college football’s wildest but for West Virginia, a poignant reminder of a close call with greatness. They symbolize a dynasty that could have been, halted during one of college football’s most memorable eras.