3 Guys Before The Game

Rain and sunshine greeted the Mountaineers in Saturday’s season opener. Their performance followed a similar forecast. WVU’s 31-24 victory over Coastal Carolina delivered the desired result, but the path to it revealed plenty that needs immediate correction. In this episode, the “Guys” return to Sunday morning recaps to break down what worked in the first half, what went wrong in the second and what the Mountaineers must fix moving forward. Hoppy delivers his Obvious Observations, Brad digs into the stats and analytics, and listener questions and comments close the show with Textual Healing.

FINALLY … it’s here. At long last, West Virginia will open its 134th football season Saturday when the Mountaineers host Coastal Carolina. Along with the traditional optimism surrounding a season opener, the game will feature the formal retirement of legendary quarterback Pat White’s No. 5. In this episode, the “Guys” examine the biggest storylines surrounding Saturday’s matchup. Brad digs deep into the numbers with Spreads on Stats, Hoppy delivers his Obvious Observations, and listeners have their say in Textual Healing. The crew returns Sunday with a complete Coastal Carolina recap.

The first game of the college football season always brings optimism, but that feeling is even stronger at West Virginia as Rich Rodriguez and his retooled roster prepare to open the season. Saturday’s opener against Coastal Carolina carries added significance as legendary quarterback Pat White has his number retired during a pregame ceremony. In this episode, the “Guys” preview Week 1 and visit with Coastal Carolina play-by-play announcer Chris Burgin. Hoppy delivers his Obvious Observations, and listener questions and comments fuel another round of Textual Healing. The crew returns Thursday with its complete preview of Saturday’s game.

The final major scrimmage of the preseason is complete. Now, the soundtrack is changing. The sounds drifting across the West Virginia University campus belong to the Pride of West Virginia, as the marching band prepares for next week’s season opener against Coastal Carolina. The drums are getting louder. Game day is getting closer. In this episode, the “Guys” unveil their final batch of preseason Over/Under propositions. Brad zeroes in on an intriguing offensive category and a critical defensive statistic that rarely receives the attention it deserves. The numbers have been set. The predictions have been made. All that remains is to play the games and discover who knew what they were talking about — and who absolutely did not. Hoppy delivers his Obvious Observations, while listener questions and comments complete the show with Textual Healing.

Classes are underway at West Virginia University, signaling another important turn on the football calendar. The Mountaineers have officially moved beyond the isolation of preseason camp — morning practices and long days spent inside the Puskar Center — and into the rhythm of a normal game week. Afternoon practices have arrived, preparations are intensifying, and the season opener is now less than three weeks away. So, what should we expect from Rich Rodriguez’s offense? In this episode, the “Guys” unveil the first installment of their annual preseason over/under propositions. The opening focus is on a WVU offense expected to make a significant jump from last season. How productive will the Mountaineers be? Which players are poised for breakout seasons? And which numbers will ultimately define the success of Rodriguez’s offense? The predictions are made. Now comes the fun part — seeing who’s right. Hoppy Kercheval delivers his Obvious Observations, and listener questions and comments complete the episode with Textual Healing.

Call it Christmas in August. Ho, ho, ho. West Virginia’s men’s basketball roster unwrapped a very special gift Wednesday when Brenen Lorient announced he'll return to the Mountaineers for another season. The unexpected development follows the NCAA’s recent decision to grant athletes five years of eligibility. Although the matter still awaits final resolution in court, Lorient and other players appear to be moving closer to receiving an additional season. In this episode, the "Guys" are joined by WVU basketball coach Ross Hodge who explains Lorient’s situation and what his return would mean for the Mountaineers’ roster. The crew also provides the latest from preseason football camp following Rich Rodriguez’s press conference after West Virginia’s seventh practice. Listener questions and comments complete the episode with another edition of Textual Healing.

The countdown to the start of the West Virginia University football season is officially underway. The Mountaineers held their first formal preseason workout on Wednesday as head coach Rich Rodriguez begins his second season with hopes of returning WVU to its winning ways. In this episode, the “Guys” recap the opening day of practice and welcome athletic director Wren Baker, who shares his thoughts on the Antero Resources uniform announcement. Hoppy delivers his Obvious Observations, and listeners join the conversation with questions and comments on Textual Healing.

The relationship between a university president and an athletic department often determines far more than wins and losses. When leadership shares a common vision, the entire institution benefits. At West Virginia University, that partnership appears to be taking shape. President Michael Benson believes athletic success can elevate the university’s reputation, strengthen enrollment, energize alumni and create momentum that extends well beyond the playing field. In this episode, the “Guys” sit down with President Benson to reflect on his first year in Morgantown. They discuss the evolving landscape of higher education, the changing economics of college athletics, and the strategic decisions being made to position West Virginia University for long-term success. It’s an insightful conversation with the university’s chief executive on leadership, vision and why the future of WVU depends on excelling both in the classroom and in competition.

Cam Cook doesn't arrive in Morgantown with potential. He arrives with production. The senior running back from Round Rock, Texas, led all of college football in rushing last season, piling up 1,659 yards and turning himself into one of the most sought-after players in the transfer portal. Now, Cook brings that talent to West Virginia, where he'll be counted on as a centerpiece of Rich Rodriguez's high-powered offense. In this episode, the "Guys" sit down with Cook to trace his remarkable journey—from an underutilized recruit to the nation's leading rusher—and learn what fuels his confidence, work ethic and relentless running style. He also shares why Morgantown became the right destination and what he hopes to accomplish this season. If you're wondering what West Virginia's backfield could look like this fall, this conversation provides an inside look at the player expected to carry the load. Plus, the crew unwraps a surprise package from music star Charles Wesley Godwin, Hoppy delivers his latest Obvious Observations, and listener questions once again drive another entertaining edition of Textual Healing.

The founder of Pro Football Talk returns for his annual visit with the “Guys,” delivering the sharp analysis, quick wit and unapologetic opinions that have made him one of football’s most recognizable voices. With NFL training camps about to open, Florio breaks down the league’s biggest storylines, identifies the teams under the most pressure, and shares what he’s watching as another unpredictable season begins. The conversation also shifts to the ever-changing landscape of college athletics, where Florio offers his perspective on the legal battles, financial realities and seismic changes continuing to reshape the games we love. As always, the discussion isn’t limited to sports. Florio provides an update on his latest writing projects, including an unexpected turn into the supernatural—a creative journey that reveals another side of one of football’s most fascinating personalities. Insightful. Entertaining. Thought-provoking. And, at times, laugh-out-loud funny. It’s another can’t-miss conversation with one of the most informed and opinionated voices in football.

In today’s era of college football, loyalty has become one of the rarest traits in the game. West Virginia linebacker Ben Cutter chose a different path. The North Carolina native arrived in Morgantown as a freshman and never looked back. While countless players chased new opportunities through the transfer portal, Cutter stayed committed to the Mountaineers, growing into one of the leaders of West Virginia’s defense. Now entering the final season of his collegiate career, Cutter hopes years of patience, perseverance and development will produce his best football yet. In this episode, the “Guys” explore Cutter’s journey from highly recruited prospect to veteran leader. It’s an engaging conversation about football, personal growth, academics and the relationships that convinced him West Virginia was always the right place to call home.

College sports no longer have an off-season. West Virginia’s historic run to the College World Series carried the Mountaineers deep into June, while preparations for the 2026-27 athletic year are already underway. Summer workouts have begun, fall camps open in just a few weeks, and the landscape of college athletics continues to evolve at a breathtaking pace. In this episode, the “Guys” sit down with WVU Vice President and Director of Athletics Wren Baker for a wide-ranging conversation about the state of Mountaineer athletics. Baker reflects on an unforgettable year for WVU sports, discusses the momentum being built across multiple programs, and explains how sweeping changes in revenue sharing, roster management and NCAA governance are reshaping the future of college athletics. It’s an insightful, candid conversation with the man responsible for navigating one of the most transformational periods in the history of college sports.

WVU quarterback Michael Hawkins doesn’t command attention with volume. Instead, he exudes something far more powerful — quiet confidence. The former Oklahoma signal caller arrived in Morgantown carrying the expectations that come with being one of the nation’s most coveted high school recruits. After experiencing the realities and challenges of major college football, Hawkins now finds himself in position to lead the Mountaineers into a new era. As preseason camp approaches, there is a growing belief that Hawkins is prepared to translate potential into production. In this episode, the “Guys” sit down with the Mountaineers’ quarterback candidate for a revealing conversation about his journey, his growth, and the lessons learned along the way. Hawkins discusses his transition to West Virginia, his relationship with Rich Rodriguez, and the mindset he brings into a season filled with opportunity. It’s an insightful and entertaining look at the player entrusted with one of the most important positions in college football and the person behind the helmet.

The greatest season in West Virginia University baseball history has reached its conclusion. Over the course of four remarkable months, the 2026 Mountaineers accomplished what no team in the previous 134 seasons had ever achieved. They won the program’s first College World Series game, captured the imagination of an entire state and elevated WVU baseball to a level once thought unattainable. The sting of elimination in Omaha will eventually fade. The memories, milestones and momentum created by this team will not. In this episode, the “Guys” reflect on a season unlike any other and discuss what this historic run means for the baseball program, the University and West Virginia itself. Hoppy delivers his Obvious Observations, Brad brings a season-ending edition of Spreads on Stats, and listener comments and questions complete the show during Textual Healing. The fellas return next week with a special episode featuring WVU quarterback Michael Hawkins.

The challenge is familiar. The stakes have never been higher. West Virginia’s quest for a national championship took an unexpected turn Sunday when North Carolina handed the Mountaineers a loss that leaves no margin for error. To reach the College World Series championship series, WVU must now win three consecutive elimination games. It’s a scenario that feels remarkably familiar. Just two weeks ago, the Mountaineers found themselves in a similar position after dropping their second game of the NCAA Regional in Morgantown. What followed was one of the most memorable stretches in program history. Now, another chapter awaits. In this episode, the “Guys” dissect Sunday’s setback, explain what went wrong and examine what West Virginia must do to keep its season alive when it faces Troy on Tuesday afternoon. Hoppy delivers his Obvious Observations, Brad brings another edition of Spreads on Stats, and the crew looks ahead to what could be another remarkable run. The “Guys” return Wednesday with a complete recap of the elimination showdown against Troy.

Before anyone had finished settling into their seats in Omaha, West Virginia had already announced its arrival. The Mountaineers made history Friday afternoon by earning the program’s first-ever College World Series victory, defeating a resiliet Troy squad, 7-5, in a game packed with momentum swings, clutch hits and unforgettable moments. From a daring steal of home in the opening inning to another display of the lineup’s remarkable depth, WVU once again found contributions from throughout the roster. Big hits came from unexpected places, and Division II transfer Ian Korn delivered the longest outing of his season to secure the biggest win of his career. In this episode, the “Guys” break down a memorable day in Omaha and explain why this Mountaineer team continues to prove that its greatest strength is the collective effort of the entire roster. The victory sends West Virginia into the winner’s bracket of the College World Series, where an even greater opportunity awaits on Sunday. As always, the conversation includes Hoppy’s Obvious Observations and the story of an incredible Mountaineer fan's trip to Omaha.

The dream that once seemed distant is now reality. For the first time in program history, West Virginia has arrived in Omaha. The Mountaineers took the field Thursday at Charles Schwab Field to begin preparations for their College World Series debut, a milestone moment decades in the making. Friday afternoon, WVU opens play against Troy in the first game of the 2026 College World Series. It’s the first CWS appearance for both programs and the next chapter in a season that has already rewritten the Mountaineer record book. In this episode, the “Guys” welcome three guests who have shared a front-row seat to West Virginia’s remarkable journey. Former Major League standout and WVU Special Assistant to the Head Coach Jed Gyorko joins the conversation, along with Mountaineer Sports Network broadcasters Andrew Caridi and Jake Weghorst. Together, they provide unique perspective, behind-the-scenes stories, and firsthand insight into the team, the atmosphere, and the significance of West Virginia’s historic arrival in Omaha. It’s an informative, entertaining, and unforgettable preview of the biggest weekend in Mountaineer baseball history.

The storybook season for the West Virginia University baseball team is ready for its next chapter. After a historic run through the regular season, NCAA Regional and Super Regional play, the Mountaineers head to Omaha for the first College World Series appearance in school history. WVU opens CWS play Friday afternoon against Troy in a matchup featuring two programs making their College World Series debut. In this episode, the “Guys” break down the remarkable road to Omaha, revisit the defining moments that made history and examine what it will take for the Mountaineers to continue their championship chase. Hoppy delivers his Obvious Observations, listener questions fuel Textual Healing, and the crew looks ahead to what could be an unforgettable week on college baseball’s biggest stage. The next episode of 3 Guys Before The Game will be recorded from Omaha and released Thursday.

June baseball was once a dream in Morgantown. Now, it’s reality. The most remarkable season in West Virginia baseball history added another unforgettable chapter Monday night when the Mountaineers outlasted Kentucky in extra innings to capture the NCAA Regional Championship. The victory capped a four-day test of endurance, resilience, and belief. Facing elimination and mounting pressure, WVU answered every challenge with three consecutive wins in the most dramatic fashion imaginable. Now, the reward is historic. For the first time ever, West Virginia University will host an NCAA Super Regional. Standing between the Mountaineers and their first trip to the College World Series is Cal Poly, which arrives in Morgantown this weekend for a best-of-three series with a place in Omaha on the line. In this episode, the “Guys” are joined by WVU head coach Steve Sabins for an inside look at a program-defining weekend. Sabins breaks down the key moments, pivotal decisions, and relentless mindset that carried the Mountaineers through one of the most memorable stretches in school history. Two wins away from Omaha, West Virginia’s dream season continues.

Brodie Kresser’s journey to West Virginia University baseball is proof that big dreams can grow from small-town roots. The Iowa native arrived in Morgantown after a winding path that included a small high school program and junior college baseball, but aggressive recruiting from Mountaineer coach Steve Sabins convinced Kresser that WVU was the perfect fit. Three seasons later, the decision has paid off in a big way. Kresser has become one of the leaders of a Mountaineer team preparing to host an NCAA Regional before what promises to be a sold-out crowd at Kendrick Family Ballpark. In this episode, the “Guys” dive into Kresser’s baseball journey, his competitive approach to the game and the role that family and faith have played throughout his career. The crew also discusses the growing excitement surrounding WVU baseball as postseason play arrives in Morgantown. Listener questions and comments complete the episode during Textual Healing.