RICH RODRIGUEZ SHOCKS COLLEGE FOOTBALL WORLD — SNUBS $15 MILLION FROM POWER 5 PROGRAMS TO RETURN TO WEST VIRGINIA: “THIS IS WHERE I BELONG”
June 24, 2025 – Morgantown, WV
In a college football bombshell that has the entire nation buzzing, former West Virginia University head coach Rich Rodriguez has made the unthinkable decision: he’s turning down not one, but two $15 million offers from Arizona State and Mississippi State to return to the place he still calls home—WVU.
Rodriguez, 61, was widely believed to be the top coaching target in this summer’s high-stakes hiring carousel. Arizona State reportedly offered a fully guaranteed five-year, $15 million contract loaded with NIL incentives and private jet access. Mississippi State matched that figure and even dangled a lucrative booster-backed NIL war chest to sweeten the deal. Yet, despite the enormous financial windfall, RichRod shocked insiders by choosing passion over payout.
“I never stopped being a Mountaineer,” Rodriguez said at a surprise press conference held outside Milan Puskar Stadium, donning his signature gold WVU cap. “This is my family. This is my legacy. We built something special here once—and now we’re going to finish the job.”
Rodriguez coached at WVU from 2001 to 2007, leading the Mountaineers to multiple Big East titles and an unforgettable Sugar Bowl win in 2006. His spread offense revolutionized the game, and names like Pat White and Steve Slaton still echo in Mountaineer lore. His sudden departure to Michigan in 2007 remains controversial among fans—but today’s move signals redemption.
According to insiders, Rodriguez will be returning as WVU’s Head Coach and Executive Director of Football Operations, a new dual-role position created by athletic director Wren Baker to revamp the football program’s identity. Sources confirm he’ll have full control over recruiting, NIL strategy, and even facilities design.
Fan reaction has been explosive. Social media lit up with “Welcome Home, RichRod” posts, and ticket sales spiked by over 200% within an hour of the announcement.
If there were any doubts about Rich Rodriguez’s love for Morgantown, they’re gone now.
Sometimes, home is worth more than $15 million.
