West Virginia

If you want the Big 12's new star, this might be it. West Virginia has assembled the pieces to finally unleash the full potential of Rich Rodriguez's offensive system, headlined by Jacksonville State transfer running back Cam Cook, whose 74.0 PPA arrival represents the centerpiece of a portal class that added 140.0 PPA while losing just 70.4. The Mountaineers grade out at 70th nationally with a -0.4 power rating, buoyed by a defense that ranks 52nd (+1.2) but weighed down by an offense that sits 80th (-1.5) — though that offensive number should improve dramatically with Cook's explosiveness complementing returning starter Scotty Fox Jr. under center. The departures of backup quarterback Nicco Marchiol and receivers Cam Vaughn (Miami) and Rodney Gallagher III (Arizona) opened opportunities for UConn transfer John Neider (32.0 PPA) and Troy's DJ Epps to step into expanded roles.

JP+ projects 6.1 wins for West Virginia in a schedule that features challenging road trips to Texas Tech, Utah, and TCU but offers manageable home games against Oklahoma State, Coastal Carolina, and UT Martin. The projection reflects optimism that Cook can transform an offense that struggled through a 4-8 campaign, giving Rodriguez the dynamic backfield weapon his system demands to create explosive plays and control tempo. If Cook stays healthy and the offensive line provides adequate blocking, this could be the breakthrough season that launches West Virginia back into Big 12 contention. If the offensive improvements don't materialize quickly, another disappointing year awaits.