Wren Baker Details Conversation with Pat McAfee Concerning WVU’s Search

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Since Pat McAfee publicized his recent conversation with Wren Baker, the question about what exactly his involvement in WVU’s search for its next football head coach will look like came up on Tuesday.

After saying he’s constantly fielding similar calls from people who care deeply about their Mountaineers, Baker recognized McAfee’s influence and the benefit he serves in terms of media exposure.

“I appreciate how much Pat McAfee loves his school, loves his university,” said Baker.

Baker also admitted he would not have made the fact they talked public if McAfee didn’t do it himself.

“I think you always want to make sure that you’re talking to people who are knowledgable and who have a lot of love for the program,” he added to cover discussions he’s either had or will have with any notable figure, so Nick Saban or Don Nehlen etc. 

And speaking of Saban in particular, Baker joked that he tried to convince his wife to persuade the legend to get back into coaching but that didn’t go so well. This comes after McAfee eliminated Saban as a candidate during a segment of his daily talk show.

“Coach Saban isn’t getting back into coaching but I do believe he is interested in helping West Virginia,” said McAfee.

For some better news, McAfee did explain he’s receiving calls from coaches all over the country, including many high profile ones, asking him to support them as being the next head coach of his beloved Mountaineers.

But as Baker said, McAfee’s passion to assist WVU in any way he can is clear.

As his instant reaction on the night the news of Neal Brown’s firing was announced, McAfee offered a strong sales pitch to the next head coach of the West Virginia Mountaineers.

“Now… there’s a P4 Head Coaching gig with a GREAT brand/history that doesn’t have a pro team in its state open.. also, a very PASSIONATE fanbase. I’ve been on the phone quite a bit… something special is possible. Wren Baker is in a great spot. I have faith he’s gonna get it right. Let’s GOOOOOOOO,” added an energized McAfee.

McAfee was vocal with his support and also his criticism when warranted of WVU during Brown’s tenure, but he now appears to be motivated to assist WVU director of athletics Wren Baker and the administration as they search for West Virginia’s next leader.

And an alum who just happens to be one of the most prominent voices in sports media today involved in the process can’t hurt.

For a related story, Mike Asti and Cody Nespor talked with fans about the Neal Brown firing and possible candidates to become the next WVU football head coach.