June 13, 2025

 

Pat White Returns to West Virginia Football as Assistant Quarterbacks Coach and Advisor to Rich Rodriguez

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – One of West Virginia’s most legendary football players is coming home. In a move that has energized Mountaineer fans and brought a wave of nostalgia across the state, head coach Rich Rodriguez announced that Pat White is rejoining the West Virginia football program as the assistant quarterbacks coach and assistant to the head coach.

“It’s really special to welcome Pat White back to Morgantown as a member of our football coaching staff,” Rodriguez said in a statement. “He has been involved in some of the biggest wins in program history, and he will be a great presence in our quarterback room, on the practice field, and in mentoring our student-athletes.”

White’s return marks the reunion of two key figures who defined one of the most successful eras in West Virginia football history. Under Rodriguez’s leadership and with White under center, the Mountaineers captured three Big East titles and posted multiple top-10 finishes, including a stunning 48-28 upset of No. 3 Oklahoma in the 2008 Fiesta Bowl — a game in which White was named MVP.

Now, nearly two decades after first dazzling fans with his speed, leadership, and clutch performances, White is back in Morgantown — this time, to shape the next generation of Mountaineer quarterbacks.

A Mountaineer Legend Comes Full Circle

Pat White isn’t just a name in West Virginia football history — he is a chapter. A dual-threat quarterback ahead of his time, White was the centerpiece of Rodriguez’s high-octane spread offense from 2005 to 2008. He finished his career as the NCAA’s all-time winningest quarterback with a 35-8 record as a starter and remains the only quarterback in college football history to win four bowl games as a starter.

He rushed for over 4,400 yards and passed for more than 6,000, accounting for 103 total touchdowns in his career. But beyond the numbers, it was White’s poise, toughness, and playmaking ability that etched his name into the lore of Mountaineer football. From the 2006 Sugar Bowl rout of Georgia to the unforgettable night in Norman, Oklahoma, White was the heartbeat of a golden era.

Now, his story comes full circle as he returns to mentor players walking the same halls he once did, wearing the same jersey he made iconic.

“I’m truly honored and humbled to be back at West Virginia,” White said in a statement. “This place means everything to me. It helped shape me into the man I am today. I’m grateful to Coach Rodriguez for this opportunity to give back and to help develop the next wave of Mountaineers.”

Building the Bridge Between Past and Present

White’s role as assistant quarterbacks coach will put him in direct contact with the team’s most important position group. His firsthand knowledge of Rodriguez’s offensive philosophy — which relies heavily on mobile quarterbacks who can read, react, and attack — makes him an ideal mentor for the current signal-callers.

In addition, as assistant to the head coach, White will serve as a liaison between the coaching staff and players, offering leadership advice, insight into the program’s culture, and guidance on handling the pressures of major college football.

Rodriguez emphasized that White’s leadership, work ethic, and familiarity with the program are what make him an invaluable addition.

“He knows what it takes to win here,” Rodriguez said. “He knows how to handle success, adversity, and how to lead. And he cares deeply about West Virginia. That’s the kind of guy you want around your team.”

Coaching Roots and a Passion for Mentorship

Since retiring from professional football, White has carved out a path as a rising coach in the collegiate ranks. He’s held coaching positions at Alabama State, South Florida, and most recently, Campbell University, where he worked as quarterbacks coach. His coaching journey reflects the same commitment and determination he displayed as a player.

White has also remained active in community work and youth development, often speaking about the importance of education, accountability, and self-belief. His passion for mentorship extends beyond the Xs and Os of football.

“It’s not just about teaching guys how to throw a better ball or read a defense,” White said. “It’s about helping them grow into responsible young men, being there for them, and passing on what I’ve learned over the years.”

The Rodriguez-White Reunion

The reunion between Rodriguez and White is more than a nostalgic storyline — it’s a strategic move that symbolizes a larger revival. After returning to West Virginia in 2024 to replace Neal Brown, Rodriguez has been methodically rebuilding the program with an emphasis on culture, identity, and tradition.

Bringing back White aligns perfectly with that vision.

“Having someone like Pat on staff reinforces who we are and what we stand for,” Rodriguez said. “He’s a walking example of Mountaineer pride.”

The addition also sends a powerful message to recruits and fans alike — that West Virginia is serious about honoring its roots while forging a new future.

Fan Reaction: A Hero’s Welcome

The news of White’s return was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from fans, alumni, and former teammates. Social media lit up with tributes, highlights, and messages of support, many calling it the best decision the program has made in years.

“To see Pat back in the gold and blue is just amazing,” said former teammate Steve Slaton. “He’s going to do great things for this team.”

The WVU fanbase, known for its loyalty and passion, has long revered White as one of the greatest athletes to ever represent the university. His return is being celebrated not just as a hire, but as a homecoming.

A New Chapter Begins

As spring practices continue and preparations ramp up for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on how the quarterback room develops under White’s tutelage. With a young but talented roster, Rodriguez is banking on White’s influence to help mold not just a starter, but a leader.

For White, it’s a chance to give back to the university that gave him everything — a chance to pay it forward and once again help West Virginia chase greatness.

“I’ve always said that West Virginia is home,” White said. “Now I get to help build s

omething special here again, and that means the world to me.”

 

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