West Virginia secured a 31-24 victory over Coastal Carolina on Saturday in Morgantown, overcoming a second-half collapse to win their season opener. Running back Cam Cook rushed for 142 yards and scored twice on short runs, while quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. contributed 103 yards on the ground and threw for 132 yards with two touchdown passes. The Mountaineers built a commanding 24-0 halftime lead, dominating early with 336 total yards of offense.
The game marked a significant day for the program, as West Virginia retired the jersey of legendary former quarterback Pat White during pregame ceremonies. However, the Mountaineers’ defensive performance deteriorated dramatically after intermission, allowing Coastal Carolina to mount an impressive comeback. The Chanticleers cut into the deficit with three second-half touchdown passes from redshirt freshman quarterback Deuce Bailey, narrowing the gap considerably.
Coastal Carolina nearly completed an improbable rally, with Bailey finishing 21-of-37 for 373 yards. The Chanticleers pulled within one score late in the game, but a failed onside kick attempt following a 32-yard field goal with 27 seconds remaining sealed West Virginia’s victory. Despite the win, the Mountaineers showed vulnerability defensively, allowing Coastal Carolina to gain 425 total yards and outscore them 24-7 in the second half.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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