‘Boost of Energy’: WVU Players Offer Opinions of Coal Rush Uniform

The hype for West Virginia’s showdown with Iowa State extends well beyond the implications to the Big 12 standings. WVU has decided to make this game the night to debut their new Coal Rush uniform, adding more anticipation for a matchup with the No. 11 Iowa State Cyclones.

So in addition to talking football, a few WVU players were asked what they think of the all black alternate uniform that honors the state’s connection to the coal industry. And the consensus opinion of CJ Donaldson, Jaheem Joseph and Wyatt Milum about the Coal Rush uniform seems to be a big two thumbs up.

Joseph, who is coming off his best game as a Mountaineer after recording four tackles and grabbing his first interception of the season in West Virginia’s dominating performance over Oklahoma State, called the Coal Rush uniform “so hard” and said the all black provides a different type of energy.

“I like black… So all black is a different type of energy, a different type of step to you,” said Joseph with a big smile.

Donaldson shares Joseph’s love for rocking a new and fresh black jersey. “I’m just ready to put those black jerseys on. They look pretty cool.”

The @WVUfootball "Coal Rush" jersey's are a work of art pic.twitter.com/mwxswR0nVm

— Bussin' With The Boys (@BussinWTB) October 8, 2024

While Milum isn’t much of a swag guy, he also recognizes the boost in energy a completely different look can offer the team.

“So the uniform, they’re nice but I just think it gives a little bit more energy going into the game.” But Milum made sure to temper the excitement a bit and emphasize that playing well is far more important than what you’re wearing.

The Mountaineers 3-2 (2-0, Big 12) and Cyclones 5-0 (2-0, Big 12) are set to kickoff at 8 pm ET on Saturday. WVU is considered a slight underdog going into the game.

The Saturday night atmosphere will also serve as the backdrop to Iowa State quarterback Rocco Becht’s father Anthony being honored. Former Mountaineer Anthony Becht was unable to attend his induction into the WVU Sports Hall of Fame and will be honored when his son is in town.

A special drone show will take place for fans in attendance at half time as well.

Both WVU and Iowa State are among five remaining undefeated teams in the Big 12 standings. Iowa State is coming off a 43-21 win over Baylor.

For a related story, WVU head coach Neal Brown creates visual to make sure team never forgets their approach to the schedule.