Sources Confirm Neal Brown And West Virginia Set To Part Ways
After seven seasons at the helm of the West Virginia University football program, Neal Brown and the university are set to part ways, according to multiple sources with knowledge of the situation. The official announcement is expected to be made in the coming days.
Reasons for the Split
The decision to part ways with Brown is believed to be primarily driven by the program’s recent struggles on the field. The Mountaineers have finished with a losing record in four of Brown’s seven seasons, including a disappointing 5-7 campaign in 2022.
Despite making significant changes to the coaching staff and roster, Brown was unable to turn around the program’s fortunes. The offense struggled mightily in 2022, ranking among the worst in the FBS in several key categories.
Brown’s Legacy
Brown’s tenure at West Virginia was marked by both highs and lows. He led the Mountaineers to two bowl games, including a victory in the 2019 Camping World Bowl. He also oversaw the development of several talented players, including quarterback Jarret Doege and wide receiver Bryce Ford-Wheaton.
However, Brown’s inability to sustain success on the field ultimately proved to be his downfall. West Virginia’s defense showed significant improvement in recent years, but the offense never reached its full potential under his leadership.
Next Steps for West Virginia
With Brown’s departure, West Virginia will now begin the search for its next head coach. The university is expected to cast a wide net, considering both experienced candidates and rising stars within the coaching ranks.
Some potential candidates who could be considered include:
- Jeff Monken, Army
- Zac Taylor, Bengals (if he decides to leave the NFL)
- Tony Gibson, Cincinnati (defensive coordinator)
- Tim Beck, Texas A&M (offensive coordinator)
- Tyson Helton, Western Kentucky
West Virginia will likely prioritize finding a coach who can develop a high-powered offense and maintain a strong defense. The university will also be looking for a coach who is a proven recruiter and has a history of success at the Power Five level.
Conclusion
Neal Brown’s tenure at West Virginia has come to an end after seven seasons. Despite showing some flashes of promise, Brown was unable to consistently lead the Mountaineers to success on the field. West Virginia will now begin the search for a new head coach who can help the program regain its status as a competitive force in the Big 12 Conference and beyond.
