Zac Alley Named West Virginia Defensive Coordinator

West Virginia University has made significant coaching changes, with Rich Rodriguez hiring Zac Alley as the new assistant head coach, defensive coordinator, and linebackers coach. Alley, who previously worked under Rodriguez at Jacksonville State and Oklahoma, is seen as one of the top young defensive minds in college football. Rodriguez praised Alley for his innovative approach and ability to develop winning results, expressing confidence in his immediate impact on the team. The Mountaineers' defense struggled in 2024, ranking near the bottom of the FBS, which highlights the urgency of this new appointment. Additionally, Rodriguez has rehired Chad Scott as the running backs coach, noting his successful track record and the team's impressive rushing performance in recent seasons, including leading the Power Five in rushing yards in 2023. These changes aim to strengthen WVU's performance in the Big 12 Conference and elevate the football program overall.