SHOCKING HOMECOMING: West Virginia Legend Pat White Returns to Morgantown as Assistant Coach Under Rich Rodriguez
In a move that has sent shockwaves of excitement through Morgantown and across the college football landscape, West Virginia University has announced the return of one of its most beloved legends—Pat White. The former Mountaineer star quarterback is coming home, this time trading his helmet for a headset as he joins Rich Rodriguez’s staff as the assistant quarterbacks coach and assistant to the head coach.
For Mountaineer fans, this is more than a coaching hire—it’s a full-circle moment loaded with emotion, nostalgia, and renewed hope.
Head Coach Rodriguez, who helped shape White’s storied college career, couldn’t contain his enthusiasm.
> “It’s really special to welcome Pat White back to Morgantown as a member of our football coaching staff,” Rodriguez said. “He has been involved in some of the biggest wins in program history, and he will be a great presence in our quarterback room and around our players.”
Pat White’s return feels like destiny.
He is, without question, one of the most iconic players to ever wear the gold and blue. From 2005 to 2008, White dazzled fans with his electric speed, unmatched leadership, and unmatched grit. He led WVU to four straight bowl wins, including the unforgettable 2008 Fiesta Bowl blowout over Oklahoma—a game still regarded as one of the most iconic wins in school history. He finished his career as the winningest starting quarterback in NCAA history at the time, redefining dual-threat quarterback play.
Now, White brings that same competitive fire and deep love for the program into a new era—one where he can help mold the next generation of Mountaineer quarterbacks.
This move marks a significant moment for the program’s rebuild. With Rodriguez back at the helm and now bringing in familiar faces with proven West Virginia pride, there’s a renewed energy coursing through the fanbase. Social media exploded with reactions to the news, with alumni and fans alike celebrating the return of one of their own.
> “Pat White coming home is the best thing that’s happened to WVU football in years,” one fan posted on X. “He IS Mountaineer football.”
White’s return doesn’t just benefit the quarterbacks. His presence as a leader, mentor, and motivator will impact the entire locker room. Young players will now be coached by someone who’s walked the walk—someone who’s lived the highs, the pressures, and the expectations of carrying the WVU name on his back.
This reunion with Rodriguez also brings intrigue. Together, they built one of the most exciting and dangerous offenses in college football. Can they recapture that magic from the sidelines?
Only time will tell—but one thing is certain: Pat White’s return has reignited belief in Morgantown.
And in a sport driven by passion and pride, belief is a powerful thing.
Welcome home, No. 5.
