5 West Virginia players every Texas A&M fan needs to know
In Monday’s Liberty Bowl, Texas A&M faces off against one of the teams that replaced it in the Big 12: West Virginia. The Mountaineers had an up-and-down 7-5 year in 2014, going 5-4 in the conference with several close losses to highly ranked opponents.
Who are the most important Mountaineers for Aggies fans to keep their eyes on when the teams hit the field in Memphis?
- QB Skyler Howard: The Aggies were likely preparing to face Clint Trickett, the Mountaineers senior quarterback, but earlier this week he announced that he is retiring from football as he deals with the effects of multiple concussions. Howard made one start in Trickett’s place this year, throwing for 285 yards and three touchdowns against Iowa State in the season finale. He has some running ability as well, going for 69 yards in his start.
- WR Kevin White: Texas A&M’s secondary will have its hands full with White. The Biletnikoff finalist looks like a tight end or linebacker with his thick 6-foot-3 frame, and he’s a load for any defensive back. He went for 102 catches, 1,318 yards and nine scores in 2014. The senior is capable of using his physical dominance or impeccable technique to beat defenses.
- WR Mario Alford: Whereas White is a beast, Alford uses his speed and quickness to be a major deep threat for the Mountaineers. He led WVU with 10 receiving scores this year and racked up 888 receiving yards.
- DE Shaquille Riddick: West Virginia runs a three-man defensive front, with Riddick coming in as the leading sack man with 6.0. The senior is a bit undersized at only 240 pounds, but has the speed to give Texas A&M’s offensive line some issues.
- K Josh Lambert: The Mountaineers have one of the best special teams weapons in the country in Lambert. The sophomore was 27-for-36 in the regular season, including 15-for-22 from 40 or more yards. If West Virginia so much as crosses into A&M territory, Lambert has the leg to bang home a field goal.