Rich Rodriguez Evaluates Michael Hawkins’ Play for WVU So Far

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Understanding there are bigger games ahead, WVU head coach Rich Rodriguez is still mostly pleased with Michael Hawkins’ performance so far.

When asked to evaluate his starting quarterback’s play through two games, two wins over Coastal Carolina and UT Martin, Rodriguez wasn’t able to find much to criticize.

“I thought Mike played really well. He obviously has the ability to make big plays with his feet. I thought he saw the field well,” said Rodriguez, although he also added the caveat that there were still some misses on opportunities to do even more as well.

In two games as a Mountaineer, Hawkins, West Virginia’s Power Four transfer from Oklahoma, Hawkins has 287 passing yards and 199 more yards on the ground. Hawkins also has six touchdowns collectively.

WVU quarterback Michael Hawkins takes off running in the 2026 season opener against Coastal Carolina. (WVSN photo by Kelsie LeRose)

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He’s also completed 16-of-21 pass attempts. Incredibly efficient to this point, Hawkins will now be tested further with a big matchup against Virginia and then a full Big 12 schedule to follow.

As far as his most recent outing, Hawkins was 5-for-7 for 155 yards through the air and ran for 96 yards off six carries. He scored four total touchdowns, two passing and two keeping the ball himself with his legs.

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