TCU vs. West Virginia: Game Grades, Analysis for the Mountaineers

This was a game that West Virginia University will definitely want back. The Mountaineers led by nine in the fourth quarter, but TCU stormed back and kicked a game-winning field goal to win 31-30.

West Virginia really hurt its defense by turning the ball over in the first half, but the Horned Frogs were unable to capitalize on the mistakes. TCU quarterback Trevone Boykin played his worst game of the season—throwing for only 166 yards—but he made plays down the stretch when it mattered.

It was a combination of sloppy offensive performances and exciting defensive plays. TCU defensive back Chris Hackett forced a fumble and also recorded an interception.

You can find the box score here, courtesy of NCAA.com.

Game Grades for the West Virginia Mountaineers

Position Unit	First-Half Grade	Final Grade
Passing Offense	C	D
Rushing Offense	B+	B
Pass Defense	A-	B
Run Defense	B	C
Special Teams	B	B
Coaching	B	D

Passing Offense

Clint Trickett finished this game 15-of-26 passing with one touchdown and two interceptions. He was often off-target with his throws, and he seemed to stare down receivers on certain plays. Star wide receiver Kevin White was also shut down, only totaling three catches for 28 yards.

With the double coverages on White, it seems that West Virginia should have been able to find another target to consistently throw to.

Rushing Offense

The Mountaineers came out with a game plan to run the ball and control the line of scrimmage. This was successful in the first half and led to a huge difference in time of possession. It was another solid day for the rushing attack, finishing with 195 yards.

Dreamius Smith had a 50-yard run that really got the crowd going, and Wendell Smallwood added 64 yards.

Pass Defense

Although it gave up some plays in the fourth quarter, it was a great day for the West Virginia secondary. Boykin was on fire coming into this game, and he was held to only 166 yards and one passing touchdown.

Run Defense

The run defense was shaky at times, allowing TCU to rush for 223 yards. B.J. Catalon averaged 5.3 yards per carry and ended the day with 105 yards and two touchdowns.

Boykin used his legs and was able to rush for 49 yards, and Aaron Green also added 63 yards.

Coaching

There was a lot to look back on and ask “what if” in this game. The play-calling in the fourth quarter was very conservative, and it allowed TCU to stay in rhythm and build momentum.

Head coach Dana Holgorsen’s play-calling was very questionable at times, and the decision to hold the timeouts at the end was also debatable. TCU was already in field-goal range, and West Virginia had three timeouts to use.

Special Teams

Josh Lambert was great in this game, going 3-of-3 on his kicks. He has been solid all year long, and he made some big kicks in this game.

Punter Nick O’Toole also averaged 45.4 yards per punt in this game, adding one inside the 20-yard line.