Rich Rodriguez Warned Not to Coach WVU for Six Months Due to Suspension
Morgantown, WV – West Virginia University (WVU) football head coach Rich Rodriguez has been officially warned not to coach the Mountaineers for six months following a suspension handed down by the NCAA. The ruling comes as a result of infractions stemming from his previous coaching tenure.
The six-month suspension, effective immediately, has disrupted WVU’s plans for a critical rebuilding phase in the 2025 season. The NCAA cited violations involving recruiting misconduct and failure to uphold compliance standards as reasons for the penalty. Despite the incidents being linked to a different program, the decision impacts Rodriguez’s ability to lead his current team.
WVU Athletic Director Wren Baker expressed disappointment over the ruling but reiterated the university’s commitment to ethical standards. “This is a challenging time for our program, but we respect the NCAA’s decision and are focused on moving forward. Coach Rodriguez is committed to learning from this and returning stronger,” Baker said during a press briefing.
During the suspension, interim head coach Blaine Stewart will oversee the Mountaineers. A WVU alum and former NFL assistant, Stewart is expected to lead the team through spring practices and the early stages of the 2025 season. The roster includes a mix of experienced players and highly-touted recruits, keeping fans optimistic about the program’s potential.
Rodriguez, who returned to WVU after a successful stint from 2001 to 2007, issued a statement of regret, acknowledging his responsibility for past mistakes. “I deeply regret the actions that led to this suspension. I respect the NCAA’s ruling and will take this time to reflect and grow as a coach and leader,” he said.
Despite the setback, Mountaineer Nation remains hopeful for a competitive season under Stewart’s
leadership.