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Michael Hawkins Jr. BACK at WVU in 2027? On3’s Pete Nakos reports West Virginia is already negotiating with its starting quarterback about returning next season—and that points directly to Hawkins! Mountaineer Paul breaks down what the reported talks mean for Rich Rodriguez, why keeping Hawkins should be a HUGE priority, and how WVU can build around its dynamic quarterback. With quarterback prices exploding across college football, what will it take to keep him in Morgantown—and still address the rest of the roster? Plus, the rising cost of backup quarterbacks and what it could mean for WVU’s quarterback room moving forward. Nakos identifies WVU’s starting quarterback in the report without naming Hawkins; no completed agreement is reported. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Hawkins Jr. or Drew Mestemaker—who gets your vote? It’s THE GREAT QB DEBATE as Locked On West Virginia’s Mountaineer Paul and Locked On Oklahoma State’s Cody Stovall defend their quarterbacks, challenge each other’s arguments, and answer the ultimate question: Would you trade your guy? From passing production to dual-threat ability, we debate what makes each quarterback special—and who you’d trust with the game on the line. Then we put each other’s teams under the microscope! “Tell Me Why I’m Wrong,” “Fix My Team,” and a Big 12 buy, sell, or hold debate lead into previews of West Virginia at TCU and Colorado at Oklahoma State. Who needs a win more, what could go wrong, and which teams finish Saturday celebrating? Two hosts. Two quarterbacks. One debate. Make your case in the comments: Hawkins or Mestemaker? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

BREAKING: Bob Huggins’ family has announced that the Hall of Fame coach is living with a progressive cognitive condition affecting his memory and daily life. We discuss the announcement with heavy hearts—and what it means to a Mountaineer family that shared so many unforgettable moments with Huggs. My message to West Virginia University, Wren Baker and WVU leadership is simple: IT’S TIME. Time for forgiveness. Time to welcome Bob Huggins home. Time to honor him THIS SEASON and let him hear how much he means to Mountaineer Nation. Forgiveness doesn’t erase mistakes. It allows us to acknowledge them while also recognizing the people, relationships and lasting contributions that deserve to be remembered. From the unforgettable 2010 Final Four run to his bond with West Virginia, Huggins gave this fan base memories that will last a lifetime. Any celebration should respect his wishes and his family’s comfort. But WVU can make the invitation now. Bring Huggs home. Give him his flowers. Let him hear our love. What would you like to see WVU do to honor Coach Huggins? Share your thoughts below. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

DON’T BURY WVU YET! Rich Rodriguez has watched seasons unravel—and still found a way to finish with something special. Can he do it AGAIN at West Virginia? Mountaineer Paul looks back at three teams that give Mountaineer fans a reason to BELIEVE: 2003 West Virginia, which turned a 1–4 start into seven straight wins and a share of the Big East championship; 2024 Jacksonville State, which overcame an 0–3 start to win the Conference USA championship; and 2015 Arizona, which endured a three-game losing streak before finishing with a New Mexico Bowl victory. Now that WVU has snapped its three-game skid against Cincinnati, could another RichRod turnaround be taking shape? We examine the history, the reasons for optimism, and what West Virginia must improve to make the rest of this season something worth remembering—starting against TCU. He’s done this before. Can he do it again? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Big 12 powers face a playoff ranking crisis as ESPN’s FPI continues to favor SEC teams, sparking heated debate among fans and analysts. Despite BYU’s statement win over Notre Dame, the Cougars remain frozen in the rankings, while Texas, LSU, and Oregon all jump ahead of Big 12 contenders. Is the Big 12’s momentum in the AP poll enough to overcome the College Football Playoff Committee’s reliance on opaque analytics? The Big 12 Squad breaks down the pivotal Houston vs. Oklahoma State clash, Utah’s bowl-eligible struggles, and whether Conner Weigman has emerged as the conference's next elite quarterback. Hot takes fly on brand bias, scheduling strategies, and the enduring importance of a Big 12 championship. With teams like Arizona and Houston peaking, who really deserves a shot at the playoff—and can the system be trusted? Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! KALSHIFor a limited time, Download Kalshi and use code Locked On to get $25 when you trade $25. Kalshi. Trade what’s next. IndeedListeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. SupplyHouseVisit https://SupplyHouse.com/TM to learn more about becoming a Trade Master. Use promo code S H 5 College for five percent off your first order.SupplyHouse. Real people. Real service. Butcher BoxIf you're looking for an easier way to get great meals on the table, give ButcherBox a try. Go to https://ButcherBox.com/LOCKEDONCOLLEGE to get $20 off your first box, plus your choice of free ribeye, new york strip, or filet mignon in every box for a year — with free shipping always. 5-Hour ENERGYTreat yourself to a crisp apple bite and smooth caramel delight with a Caramel Apple 5-hour ENERGY®️ shot, only available online for a limited time at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon. OdooGreat organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. GametimeToday's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. FanDuelThis season, FanDuel is making the excitement go beyond what happens on the field with the all-new FanDuel Rewards Club, featuring exclusive offers, surprises, and more. Every week, check the FanDuel app to see what’s waiting for you or visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Hawkins Jr. is giving the nation a reason to watch WVU! After earning Walter Camp National Player of the Week honors and a Manning Award Star of the Week selection, Hawkins is getting more national love—with legendary coach Jon Gruden adding to the Heisman conversation. Mountaineer Paul breaks down why WVU’s quarterback deserves his due and what it will take to keep that buzz building. Plus, Cam Cook returns to Fort Worth with something to prove! The former TCU running back heads back to face his old program, this time wearing West Virginia’s gold and blue. We discuss the revenge storyline, Cook’s importance to WVU’s offense, and how a statement performance could help the Mountaineers leave Texas with a victory. Does Hawkins deserve more Heisman attention? And will Cook get the last word against TCU? Join the conversation! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

A TCU insider thinks West Virginia’s offense is about to meet its match. Mountaineer Paul has two words for him: WATCH US! Coming off a much-needed win over Cincinnati, WVU heads to Fort Worth with momentum—and Michael Hawkins Jr. gets another chance to prove how dangerous this offense can be. Can the Mountaineers crack TCU’s defense, finish drives, and keep the winning going? A TCU insider joins the show for a live WVU vs. TCU preview and debate! We’re breaking down the matchups, keys to victory, and whether West Virginia’s defense can deliver enough stops to bring home a road win. Will he EAT HIS WORDS? Drop your prediction in the comments and join us LIVE! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WVU snapped its three-game losing streak—but was the Cincinnati win the TURNING POINT? Now the Mountaineers head to Fort Worth looking to make it two straight against TCU! A TCU insider joins Mountaineer Paul to preview WVU vs. TCU, break down the biggest matchups, and explain what West Virginia needs to do to keep the momentum rolling. Can Michael Hawkins Jr. deliver another monster performance? Can Zac Alley’s defense provide the stops WVU needs? And how do the Horned Frogs plan to attack the Mountaineers? We’re talking Hawkins vs. Jaden Craig, Rich Rodriguez’s offense against TCU’s defense, keys to victory, and predictions. Join the conversation and give us YOUR score prediction! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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WVU’s young playmakers are STEPPING IT UP—and there are reasons to believe the Mountaineers can finish strong! Join Mountaineer Paul for a LIVE Sunday afternoon show breaking down West Virginia’s thrilling 45–42 win over Cincinnati, the PFF grades, and FIVE reasons WVU fans should be optimistic about the rest of the season! Michael Hawkins Jr. delivered 541 total yards and five touchdowns, DJ Epps exploded for 163 receiving yards, and emerging contributors like Amari Latimer, Ryan Ward and Cyrus Traugh gave this offense more answers. We’ll also spotlight the defensive players who stepped up—and discuss why the offensive line and defense still need serious improvement. Who deserves more opportunities? Can WVU build on this win heading into TCU? And how dangerous could this offense become with more players contributing? Bring your takes to the live chat, hit LIKE, and SUBSCRIBE for more Mountaineer football coverage! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Mountaineer Nation, let’s hear from YOU! Join Mountaineer Paul for a LIVE call-in show following WVU’s wild 45–42 victory over Cincinnati! Michael Hawkins Jr. delivered a monster performance—464 passing yards, 77 rushing yards and FIVE total touchdowns. Is it time to give West Virginia’s quarterback some HEISMAN LOVE? We’re talking Hawkins’ career day, DJ Epps stepping up, the defense, the officiating and a win these fans desperately deserved. What does this mean for Rich Rodriguez and the Mountaineers moving forward? 📞 Call in, bring your takes and celebrate with Mountaineer Paul! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

STREAK OVER! West Virginia beats Cincinnati 45–42 in a WILD Homecoming thriller, and Michael Hawkins Jr. delivers the performance Mountaineer fans desperately needed! AIR MIKE throws for a career-high 464 yards and three touchdowns, adding 77 rushing yards and two more scores. DJ Epps explodes for eight catches and 163 yards, Prince Strachan delivers two enormous receptions on the final possession, and Jack Cassidy drills the winning 35-yard field goal! After three straight losses, WVU kept answering every Cincinnati touchdown before finally getting the defensive stop that opened the door. Backed up at their own 1-yard line, the Mountaineers put together an unforgettable finish. Mountaineer Paul breaks down Hawkins’ monster afternoon, the biggest plays, the officiating frustration, and what this win means for Rich Rodriguez. Plus, where does Zac Alley’s defense stand after allowing another 42 points? WVU improves to 4–3 and earns its first Big 12 victory of the season. Mountaineer fans deserved this one—SING COUNTRY ROADS! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Zac Alley has turned struggling defenses around before—but can he do it again at WVU? After three straight Big 12 losses and 138 points surrendered, West Virginia desperately needs a defensive response against Cincinnati. Rich Rodriguez is sticking with Alley, but how much longer can the Mountaineers afford the same breakdowns? Mountaineer Paul examines the case for an Alley turnaround, what his history with Rodriguez tells us, and whether Saturday could become a defining moment for his future in Morgantown. There’s no reported last-chance ultimatum—but the pressure to show improvement is undeniable. PLUS: A full WVU vs Cincinnati preview! Can Michael Hawkins Jr. and Cam Cook carry the Mountaineers back into the win column? Can WVU contain the Bearcats’ explosive rushing attack? We break down the matchups, keys to victory and our prediction. Can WVU get its MOJO BACK? Drop your score prediction and tell us what you need to see from Alley’s defense! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

WVU baseball has everyone’s attention—and Steve Sabins is building a program with ambitions that reach all the way to Omaha. The Mountaineers have UNFINISHED BUSINESS, and a returning core led by Gavin Kelly, Armani Guzman and Chansen Cole has fans dreaming BIG. On this episode of Locked On West Virginia, Mountaineer Paul breaks down the returning stars, the newcomers to know and how this roster could fuel another postseason charge. Plus, we examine the newly released schedule and the challenges along WVU’s road back to Omaha. Can the Mountaineers turn postseason momentum into lasting national power? It’s time to get to know the team chasing that next step. Subscribe to Locked On West Virginia for your daily Mountaineers coverage, and tell us below: Can WVU baseball finish the job? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I'’m calling it: WVU rolls Cincinnati and gets its mojo back! Michael Hawkins Jr. and Cam Cook give West Virginia the firepower to deliver a big homecoming win—and this matchup gives the Mountaineers a chance to get their swagger back. On this episode of Locked On West Virginia, Mountaineer Paul breaks down why Cincinnati’s defense presents opportunities for explosive plays, how WVU can attack on the ground and through the air, and why winning first and second down is critical for Zac Alley’s defense. Can the Mountaineers finally pair their offensive production with enough defensive stops to pull away? I explain why I’m predicting they will. Drop your score prediction in the comments! Do you have WVU winning big? Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.