The Mountaineers have four remaining games in the 2024 season as they’re on their second and final bye week.

There are two games at home and two on the road: Cincinnati and Texas Tech on the road and Baylor and UCF at home. The four teams have a combined record of 17-15 this season and a 9-11 conference record.

WVU defeated all these teams in 2023, outscoring them 137-93. In their final four games of the regular season last year, they went 3-1, only losing to ranked Oklahoma.

If they do win out, they’ll tie their 2023 regular season record at 8-4. ESPN’s FPI gives them just under a 6% chance to do so but over a 65% chance to reach six wins and become bowl-eligible.

West Virginia’s coaching staff recently underwent changes. Jordan Lesley was fired as the team’s defensive coordinator, and special teams coordinator/inside linebackers Jeff Koonz was promoted to interim defensive coordinator.

Will the precedented changes be enough to propel the team forward, though? While WVU’s defense has struggled, their offense has stalled at times too.

Also, the Mountaineers are dealing with injuries. Star left tackle Wyatt Milum and starting quarterback Garrett Greene did not play in West Virginia’s win over Arizona due to injuries suffered in a loss to Kansas State.

However, backup Nicco Marchiol ultimately impressed in the win, helping WVU manufacture an efficient passing attack. While Greene’s status is still up in the air, head coach Neal Brown noted that he is still “struggling” in his recovery; how the Mountaineers proceed forward at the quarterback position is worth keeping an eye on.

If they do win out, they’ll have a record of 7-2 in Big 12 play. This record will most likely keep them out of the championship game, with teams like BYU and Iowa State still undefeated, but it should have them around the top of the conference.

West Virginia hasn’t won more than two games in a row this season, but could they win five (including Arizona win) to cap off the 2024 season?