MAILBAG: Neal's Future, Reasons for Optimism, Depth Concerns, + More

Q: Is 2022 Oklahoma the only reason Neal Brown is still HBC?

A: No. Money has a lot to do with it along with the late AD change. It would have been difficult for Wren Baker to come in when he did, get a good evaluation of the program, and understand what coach they would need to hire. Having a full season to watch and evaluate allows him to make the right decision for the future.

From @CoffeeMBA:

Q: 5-0 last year when we rushed for 200 yards, with GG & CJ behind an OL with 3 players on first team Big 12. There is more to be optimistic about than many realize. Agree or thoughts?

A: I do agree with that. Looking at the team on paper, I think they could easily reach seven or so wins. But the product on the field just hasn't been there for anyone to trust that will happen. The potential is there for an underdog story type of season, but they have to stay healthy and throw the ball well enough to deep defenses guessing.

From @DavidWo25276002:

Q: Do you think we will be good at the S and CB position this year?

A: I do. There's more experience and depth at those two spots than there was a year ago. When Charles Woods went down in the Brawl, it created panic from within. Guys were playing before they were ready and others were playing out of position. It's a healthy mix of seasoned veterans (Montre Miller, Beanie Bishop, Malachi Ruffin) and young star potential (Jacolby Spells and Andrew Wilson-Lamp) at corner. At safety, It's more top-heavy, but they'll be alright as long as Aubrey Burks can stay on the field.

From @BraxtonWil80638:

Q: Is WVU Basketball getting a transfer or two soon?

A: I don't believe so. They're keeping their eyes open as always but with the registration deadline now behind us (Aug. 22), it would require a waiver and we all know how that will go.

From @annonmike:

Q: Is Brown still around in week 6?

A: Yes. Unless they are 1-5 or 0-6, Neal will still be here. WVU doesn't fire coaches in season. It's just not their way of doing business. They'll let the season play out unless it's so bad that a change has to happen.

From @RasulBurner:

Q: I think this is his year. Best o-line he’s ever had (hopefully near elite), 4-5 backs that can seriously run the ball, talented TEs that can make plays and block well, and of course last year’s defense was rock bottom. There will be improvement on that end too. I bet 7 or 8 wins. Thoughts?

A: Seven or eight is not completely out of reach, but they're going to need a lot to go their way early on in the season. They can't start the year 1-2 with the only win coming against Duquesne. At worst, they need to split the Penn State and Pitt games. Going 3-2 in the month of September certainly gives them a chance to reach that 7/8 mark.

From @wi_thompson:

Q: It appears OLB is the weakest position with depth and talent? Who is the OLB player that needs to step up and make plays?

A: Depth across the board at linebacker is a major concern right now. But yes, specifically at WILL, they need someone to emerge as the guy. Jai Faverus feels more like a special teams ace and they're waiting for Trey Lathan and Ben Cutter to come along. For what it's worth, Lathan has looked strong in the last week or so of practice.

From @SHarvey28:

Q: You predicted WVU at 6-6, so what is the magic number for you that he keeps his job at WVU this year? Has a good recruiting class taking shape for next year after a good class this past season.

A: I'll direct you to this article I did a few days ago that goes in-depth with that very question. Click here to view my thoughts.

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