Exclusive: Owen Schmitt Expresses Love for Rich Rodriguez, Wants ‘Band Back Together’ at WVU

The thought of Rich Rodriguez back at WVU creates a sense of nostalgia, especially for his former players from that great era in Mountaineer history. And one of the most popular players from that era, a man known as the “Runaway Beer Truck,” Owen Schmitt, is ready to support his old coach as a candidate for the WVU job.

Schmitt detailed his love for Rodriguez to WV Sports Now.

“Coach believed in me and took a huge chance on me. I was given the opportunity to earn a scholarship and play on one of WVU’s greatest teams. I met amazing friends and forged lasting friendships for a lifetime and I have the utmost respect for that man and always will!,” said the legendary Mountaineer fullback.

Schmitt then offered a simple “it’s time to get the band back together” to further emphasize his support for Rodriguez.

Schmitt did post about another WVU candidate, Penn State offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki on X (formerly Twitter), but told fans that was just to show love to a fellow Wisconsin-River Falls guy.

River Falls alumni

— Owen Schmitt (@OwenSchmitt35) December 7, 2024

In the midst of rumors swirling that he’s destined to return to WVU, Rodriguez accomplished something he wasn’t able to achieve since leaving West Virginia. Rodriguez won his first FBS conference title since 2007, as Jacksonville State dominated Western Kentucky 52-12 to claim the Conference USA crown.

Schmitt totaled 1,003 yards on 160 rushing attempts and scored 13 touchdowns as a key member of Rodriguez’s spread offense in three years at WVU. He also made 32 receptions for 288 yards and added two more touchdowns.

Perhaps his most memorable play as a Mountaineer, Schmitt ran for a 57-yard touchdown in West Virginia’s Fiesta Bowl victory over Oklahoma in January of 2008.

After college, Schmitt was selected in the fifth round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks. He also spent time with the Philadelphia Eagles and the then Oakland Raiders during his five years in the NFL.

For a related story, WVU legend Steve Slaton details why he endorses Rich Rodriguez to return to WVU for a second tenure as head coach of the Mountaineers.