Storylines to Keep an Eye On for WVU-Pitt in Backyard Brawl

West Virginia will host Pitt in this year’s edition of the Backyard Brawl in Morgantown on Saturday night. Let’s take a look at the storylines surrounding the game.

Asti: It Will All Come Down to the Backyard Brawl for Neal Brown at WVU

It all comes down to this. Neal Brown and his legacy at WVU, maybe even the future of the West Virginia program, may come down to what happens in the 2023 Backyard Brawl.

That might sound strong for some. And in all reality, it’s almost impossible to say one single game is all that matters for a coach or program. But that’s also how important WVU’s upcoming matchup with Pitt is to the Mountaineers.

Click here to read WVSN’s Mike Asti’s full commentary on the Backyard Brawl.

Asti: It Will All Come Down to the Backyard Brawl for Neal Brown at WVU

Demotions and Promotions Expected on WVU Secondary Ahead of Pitt Game

WVU head coach Neal Brown wants to make sure his players know playing time is a privilege, not a right. He’s now hammering this message home as his team prepares for the Backyard Brawl.

This strategy is going to be most evident on the West Virginia secondary. Brown went as far as to refer to changes in playing time as “demotions” and “promotions” for certain players. This will mean several defensive backs who have been struggling will likely see a reduction in their snaps while others will earn increased opportunities on Saturday night.

Demotions and Promotions Expected on WVU Secondary Ahead of Pitt Game

WVU to be Without Montre Miller Again, Devin Carter Expected to Play Against Pitt

WVU head coach Neal Brown delivered both good and bad news on Monday as far as the health of a couple key players.

First off, cornerback Montre Miller, who Brown previously announced could miss an extended period of time, will be out again. Brown then added that he will offer a more detailed update on Miller at a later date. He noted Miller’s return is up to how well he continues to progress.

WVU to be Without Montre Miller Again, Devin Carter Expected to Play Against Pitt

WVU WR Hudson Clement to Start

After his career-defining game against Duquesne, freshman wide receiver Hudson Clement has gone from a walk-on depth player to a scholarship starter. West Virginia head coach Neal Brown announced on his radio show Thursday night that Clement will make his first career start against Pitt this Saturday in the Backyard Brawl.

In the game against Duquesne, Clement was the shining star. He had five catches for 177 yards and three touchdowns, a career day for any player, let alone a walk-on.

WVU WR Hudson Clement to Start in Backyard Brawl