MORGANTOWN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Rich Rodriguez, a coaching veteran with 190 career wins and a history of championship success, has been named the 36th head football coach at West Virginia University, the school announced today.
“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Rich Rodriguez and his family back home,” said Wren Baker, Vice President and Director of Athletics at WVU.
“Coach Rodriguez understands what it takes to win at West Virginia, and I believe he will pour his heart, soul, and every ounce of his energy into our program. I am convinced Coach Rodriguez wants what is best for West Virginia, WVU, and West Virginia football, and I am excited about the future of our program.”
Rodriguez, the architect of the no-huddle, zone-read spread option offense, brings over 30 years of coaching experience, including 27 as a head coach.
A native of Grant Town, West Virginia, and a 1986 graduate of WVU, Rodriguez began his coaching career at just 24 years old as the youngest head coach in college football.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be the head football coach at West Virginia University,” said Rodriguez. “My family and I are filled with gratitude to lead the Mountaineer football program again and look forward to working with the many supporters, fans, and friends to build the best football program in America! Take Me Home!”
Rodriguez has led six programs during his career, amassing a 190-129-2 record and earning seven Coach of the Year awards, including the 2024 Conference USA honor.
His teams have claimed 12 outright or shared conference and division championships, made 14 bowl appearances, and achieved significant milestones, such as three BCS bowl games.
“West Virginians always find their way home again,” said WVU President Gordon Gee. “I have spoken to Coach Rodriguez, and it is clear that his time away has provided reflection and renewed appreciation for West Virginia and West Virginia University. We look forward to having Rich, his family, and his winning record back in Morgantown.”
Rodriguez’s success includes his tenure at WVU from 2001 to 2007, where he compiled a 60-26 record and four Big East Conference championships.
The Mountaineers achieved national prominence under his leadership, winning the 2006 Sugar Bowl.
Most recently, Rodriguez coached Jacksonville State, guiding the Gamecocks to a 27-10 record, three consecutive nine-win seasons, and the 2024 Conference USA championship.
His teams achieved historic success, including becoming the first FBS program to win a bowl game in its debut season.
Throughout his career, Rodriguez has coached 56 NFL players, more than 30 All-Americans, and several record-setting quarterbacks, including WVU legend Pat White.
Rodriguez and his wife, Rita, have two children, Raquel and Rhett.
