Several players for the West Virginia Mountaineers that have the potential to become stars this autumn.
Quarterback Garrett Greene, running back Jahiem White, and tight end Beanie Bishop had incredible seasons a year ago that few saw coming.
Who might be the Mountaineers’ breakout player this season? These players immediately spring to mind as being highly plausible.
1. WR Traylon Ray
As a true freshman, Ray caught 18 passes for 321 yards and three touchdowns; as the season progressed, he was given more and more chances to catch passes. He reminds me a lot of former Mountaineer Gary Jennings. The difference between the two, in my opinion, is that Ray has come a lot farther than Jennings did following his first year of college. In addition to my belief that Ray will be among Garrett Greene’s top targets this autumn, I wouldn’t be surprised if he tops all receivers in any of the top three categories: catches, yards gained, or touchdowns.
He is quite skilled at fending off man coverage for his age and has a knack for identifying the weak points in zone coverage. Big things are in store for the sophomore receiver, according to the magic 8 ball.
2. DL Sean Martin
You may argue that Martin shouldn’t be on the list because he has played a lot of games over his career, but players who haven’t played a game yet aren’t the only ones on it. Martin’s development into one of the Big 12’s best pass rushers has been anticipated by many. The defensive staff, led by Neal Brown, is extremely optimistic that this will be the year it happens. Since it’s Martin’s last time in Morgantown, it had to be.
3. LB Josiah Trotter
This one should go without saying. If not for the injuries he sustained in the spring of last year, Trotter would have been on the field a year ago and contributed greatly as a true freshman. Among the smartest players I’ve seen out of high school, he can play any position. Undoubtedly, having a father who played a lengthy career in the NFL contributed to it. Although there are a lot of linebackers in West Virginia, it will be difficult to keep Trotter off the field. As a redshirt freshman, he is a playmaker with the potential to be an All-Big 12 player.
It’s rare for me to have such high expectations for a player of his age. This child is unique.