UPDATE: Former West Virginia University (WVU) quarterback Curt Cignetti has made headlines after leading the Indiana Hoosiers to their first-ever national championship. This remarkable achievement comes in the wake of a stunning 16-0 season and a triumphant finish in the College Football Playoffs, igniting excitement among Mountaineer fans and alumni alike.
The victory, which resonated deeply with WVU supporters, highlights a significant moment in college football, illustrating that success is attainable for programs outside the traditional powerhouses. Cignetti, who played for WVU from 1979 to 1982, has not only returned to the coaching scene but has also made a profound impact on the sport, echoing the enduring spirit of the Mountaineers.
As fans celebrate this historic win, many are left pondering the “what ifs” of Cignetti’s journey. Could he have brought similar glory back to Morgantown? The question lingers as the Mountaineers look to the future, seeking inspiration from Cignetti’s success.
This recent victory prompts a nostalgic reflection on the impressive coaching legacy of other former WVU players. Below, we explore the top 10 WVU alumni who have made their mark in football coaching:
10. Garin Justice: A former offensive lineman at WVU, Justice started his coaching career as a graduate assistant before moving through several notable programs. He currently serves as the offensive line coach and co-offensive coordinator at SMU, showcasing his potential to ascend to a Division I head coach role.
9. Gene Corum: A talented guard for the Mountaineers in the 1940s, Corum transitioned to coaching with varying success, eventually leading WVU to a Southern Conference championship in 1962.
8. Doc Holliday: After a stellar career as a linebacker, Holliday became the head coach at Marshall University, guiding the Thundering Herd to multiple bowl victories and a 13-1 season in 2014.
7. Tommy Bowden: A wide receiver at WVU, Bowden had an impressive coaching career, leading Tulane to a 12-0 record in 1998 and later coaching at Clemson, where he maintained a winning record.
6. Joe Stydahar: A tackle for the Mountaineers, Stydahar’s coaching career saw him win an NFL Championship with the Rams in 1951, though he struggled to replicate that success as a head coach.
5. Terry Bowden: Known for his early success at Auburn, Bowden compiled a 185-140-2 career record, winning several Coach of the Year honors and leaving a lasting impact on college football.
4. Rich Rodriguez: With a career record of 194-137-2, Rodriguez has won multiple conference titles and is now back at WVU, aiming to secure a national championship to cap off his storied career.
3. Ben Schwartzwalder: Schwartzwalder led Syracuse to a national championship in 1959 and is remembered for his transformative impact on college football coaching.
2. Curt Cignetti: With an impressive 146-37 coaching record, Cignetti’s rise to prominence culminated in this landmark national championship, inspiring future generations of Mountaineers.
1. Fielding Yost: A pioneering figure in coaching history, Yost led Michigan to multiple national titles and is celebrated for his innovative offensive strategies and lasting influence on the game.
As Cignetti celebrates his recent triumph and the legacy of WVU coaches is brought to light, the Mountaineer community is reminded of their rich history and the potential for future greatness. The excitement surrounding Cignetti’s achievements fuels hope for a resurgence in Morgantown, energizing fans and alumni as they look forward to the next chapter in Mountaineer football.
Stay tuned for more updates on the impact of these WVU coaching legends and the unfolding story of Curt Cignetti and the Indiana Hoosiers.