The West Virginia Mountaineers enter the Scooter’s Coffee Frisco Bowl with a 6-6 record, aiming to conclude their season on a positive note under interim head coach Blaine Stewart. The Mountaineers’ season has been marked by inconsistency, leading to the dismissal of head coach Neal Brown after six years at the helm. This bowl game offers an opportunity for the team to showcase resilience and set a foundation for future success. Offensively, West Virginia has leaned heavily on its rushing attack, averaging 195.2 yards per game on the ground. Sophomore running back Jahiem White has been a standout performer, amassing 817 rushing yards and serving as the focal point of the offense. The offensive line has played a crucial role in paving the way for the ground game, demonstrating physicality and cohesion. However, the passing game has been less effective, averaging 200.5 yards per game, indicating a one-dimensional offensive approach. Quarterback play has been a point of concern, with inconsistency in passing efficiency and decision-making. The receiving corps has shown flashes of potential, but the lack of a consistent aerial threat has allowed defenses to focus on stopping the run. Improving the passing game will be essential for the Mountaineers to present a balanced offensive attack against Memphis. Defensively, the Mountaineers have struggled, allowing 31.1 points per game. The pass defense has been particularly vulnerable, surrendering 268.9 yards per game through the air, ranking near the bottom nationally. The secondary has faced challenges in coverage, leading to explosive plays by opponents. The run defense has been more respectable, allowing 142.6 yards per game, but the overall defensive performance has been inconsistent. The defensive line has shown the ability to generate pressure, but the lack of depth has led to fatigue in late-game situations. Linebackers have been active in run support but have struggled in pass coverage, contributing to the defense’s woes. Addressing these issues will be critical for West Virginia as they prepare to face Memphis, a team with a potent and balanced offensive attack. Special teams have been a mixed bag for the Mountaineers. Kicker Michael Hayes has shown reliability from short to mid-range distances but has struggled with consistency on longer attempts. The punt coverage unit has been solid, often flipping field position to give the defense an edge. However, the return game has not provided the explosive plays the Mountaineers hoped for, and any improvements in this area could be a significant factor in the bowl game. Under interim head coach Blaine Stewart, the Mountaineers have emphasized focus and discipline during their bowl preparation. Stewart’s leadership has been well-received by the players, as he has emphasized the importance of ending the season on a high note. The coaching staff has worked on refining the team’s strengths, particularly in the running game and special teams, while addressing vulnerabilities in pass defense and offensive consistency. Facing Memphis, the Mountaineers’ game plan will revolve around controlling the clock with their ground attack. Establishing the run early with Jahiem White and utilizing play-action passes to keep the Tigers’ defense honest will be key. Defensively, the Mountaineers must focus on limiting Memphis’s explosive plays and forcing them into long, sustained drives, where mistakes are more likely. A victory in the Frisco Bowl would provide a morale boost for West Virginia and set a positive tone for the program moving forward. With a challenging season behind them, the Mountaineers aim to show resilience and determination on a national stage. For West Virginia, this game is not only an opportunity to secure a winning season but also a chance to demonstrate their potential and lay the groundwork for future success.