Norfolk State vs. West Virginia: Are Mountaineers Yet Another Overrated Squad?

It's halftime and Norfolk State has No. 19 West Virginia on their heels. Down 12-10, the Mountaineers are out of sorts and are on the brink of suffering an embarrassing loss that would ruin their season.

Even being tested by Norfolk State could be evidence enough that West Virginia doesn't belong in the top 25. West Virginia should be running this team off the field. Their struggles indicate that the Mountaineers are another ranked team with no business in the top 25.

What’s Gone Wrong?

If West Virginia were playing any other team, this game wouldn't look so bad. Their passing game certainly needs some work, as Geno Smith looked less than impressive to kick off the game. West Virginia seems thrown off by the fact that they are seeing a challenge.

They were undoubtedly expecting to rout the Spartans, but Norfolk State has proven they can compete with West Virginia on both sides of the ball and seem to have an answer for everything West Virginia is throwing their way.

What’s At Stake?

West Virginia will not see the top 25 again this season if they fall to Norfolk State. There is no way they can rebound from such a horrible loss at home against a team like Norfolk. Everything rides on the second half, and even a win might not help them remain in the top 25.

Upset Potential: 5

There is plenty of time. Clearly being down is not what West Virginia expected, but second half adjustments and a new mindset could easily turn this game around. 

How will voters react?

Voters are unforgiving of struggles from ranked teams like the one we are witnessing. We saw them oust USC from the rankings after struggling against Minnesota. The same will happen to West Virginia.

Will West Virginia Come Back?

Yes. There is too much time on the clock for a team like West Virignia to be ousted by Norfolk State. What the Spartans have done is admirable, but the Mountaineers are going to turn it on in the second half.

Who benefits most from West Virginia's collapse?

The teams in the Big East have to liking their chances against West Virginia. Maryland looks awfully impressive and could break into the top 25 as West Virginia works their way out. The tough matchup that the teams in the Big East thought was coming against West Virginia isn't coming.