Freshman Daryl Porter Jr Impressing Early

The West Virginia University football program has been holding split practices to minimize any potential outbreak of COVID-19 during the first two weeks of fall camp. As a result, freshmen are getting more reps during practice.

"One benefit that I really didn't think about because we made all of these decisions based on COVID and social distancing and small groups, is it's really helped our young kids," said head coach Neal Brown.

Split squads, coupled with a stomach bug that has been going around the team, has increased the workload for the newcomers.

In week two of fall camp, freshman Daryl Porter Jr has caught the attention of Brown.

On Monday, Brown mentioned he made a big pick-six during the first groups practice. Then, the following day, the 5-11, 179-pound true freshman from Fort Lauderdale's American Heritage High again was brought up.

Porter continued to impress throughout the week. Brown said Porter has put in three consecutive days of solid practice work going against sophomore wide receiver Sam James with some the older cornerbacks unavailable for practice.

"Daryl Porter Jr. was sharp," Brown said. "He's going against Sam James every day, and he's getting better. He really competed hard today."

Then on Friday, as the team came together as one for the first time since March 12, Brown called the practice "sloppy," but Porter continued to make plays with a couple of interceptions during the team period and seems to have a knack for being around the football.

"I've been impressed with the way he competes," Brown said. "I'm not surprised with his knowledge of football. I'm not surprised with his ability, but he has stepped in and shown no fear, and he's been competitive from the get-go."

Brown indicated that Porter will get a hard look at immediate playing time this fall if he can maintain this level of performance.

"He's got a chance. He may even be able to break into the lineup," Brown said. "He's definitely going to play. If you keep making plays in practice, that's how you are going to earn your way onto the field on Saturdays and so far so good for him."

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