Introduction
If you’re a West Virginia Mountaineers fan, the first thing you want to know before football season begins is: what does the WVU football schedule look like this year? Because for WVU fans, game day isn’t just a few hours of football—it’s a full-day event filled with tradition, pride, and passion.
Whether you’re a student planning your weekends, an alum organizing a watch party, or a lifelong fan shouting “Let’s Go Mountaineers,” knowing the WVU football schedule helps you get ready for every high and low of the season. From rivalries to road trips, homecoming weekends to primetime matchups, each game is a must-see moment.
In this guide, we’ll break down the WVU football schedule in a fun, friendly, and easy-to-read way. We’ll talk about key games, tough matchups, important dates, and what every fan should look forward to. So grab your blue and gold, and let’s dive into the Mountaineers’ gridiron journey.
A Quick Overview of the WVU Football Schedule
Every year, the WVU football schedule features 12 regular-season games. These games are usually played from early September through late November. The schedule includes:
- Non-conference games (Teams outside the Big 12)
- Big 12 matchups (The core of the season)
- Home and away games
- Possible bowl game (if qualified)
If WVU earns at least six wins, they become bowl eligible. That means they can be selected to play in a postseason game in December or January. So, the schedule is more than just a list—it’s the road to potential glory.
Home Games at Milan Puskar Stadium
Nothing beats a Saturday at Milan Puskar Stadium in Morgantown. This is where the Mountaineers play their home games—and the place where fans come by the thousands to cheer.
Located on the WVU campus, the stadium seats over 60,000 people. From the moment the band marches out, to the singing of “Country Roads” after a win, every second at this stadium feels electric.
When reviewing the WVU football schedule, home games are often fan favorites. They bring families together, draw alumni back to campus, and provide unforgettable memories. Be sure to arrive early for tailgating—it’s part of the tradition!
WVU’s Away Games: Road Tests on the Schedule
Away games on the WVU football schedule are tough but exciting. Travel challenges, unfamiliar stadiums, and rival fans make road games intense. WVU plays its away games across several states in the Big 12 Conference, including:
- Texas
- Oklahoma (in past years)
- Kansas
- Iowa
- Others, depending on the year
Road games are a good test for the team’s mental toughness. Sometimes, being far from home makes the victories even sweeter. Many die-hard fans also travel to these games, following the Mountaineers from state to state.
Non-Conference Matchups: Early-Season Highlights
At the start of the season, WVU usually plays 2–3 non-conference games. These games help prepare the team for Big 12 opponents. They can include matchups against teams from the SEC, ACC, or even smaller schools looking for a big upset.
These games are often played in the first three weeks of the season and can:
- Set the tone for the rest of the year
- Boost national rankings with a strong win
- Give new players game-time experience
For fans, these matchups offer something different and exciting. Keep an eye on the schedule—we’ve seen some wild early-season moments over the years!
Big 12 Conference Games: The True Test
The biggest part of the WVU football schedule is made up of Big 12 Conference games. These matchups are intense, fast-paced, and filled with history. WVU faces some of the most challenging teams in college football.
Common opponents include:
- Baylor
- Texas Tech
- Kansas State
- TCU
- Oklahoma State
Every win in the conference pushes WVU closer to a Big 12 Championship berth. Conference standings and team rankings affect postseason chances, playoff talks, and bowl invitations. That makes each conference game matter—a lot.
Rivalry Games Every WVU Fan Loves
Every season has its “must-win” games. For Mountaineer fans, rivalries matter. These matchups are about pride, tradition, and bragging rights—not just the scoreboard.
Most famous is the Backyard Brawl against Pitt. This game goes back more than 100 years. It’s not played every year, but when it appears on the WVU football schedule, fans go wild.
Other rivalries to watch include:
- Texas Tech (a growing modern-day rivalry)
- Oklahoma (historic matchups full of drama)
- Kansas State (always physical and competitive)
Rivalry week is when emotions run high—so don’t miss it.
Homecoming Games: A Special Day on the Schedule
One special event during the WVU football schedule is Homecoming weekend. This is when alumni return to Morgantown to celebrate their school pride and reconnect with old friends.
During this game, the entire university comes alive. Expect:
- A festive crowd
- Halftime celebrations
- Campus-wide events all weekend
The opponent for Homecoming usually isn’t one of the toughest games, making it a good chance for a WVU win. But no matter the outcome, the experience is full of spirit, tradition, and joy.
Bye Week: A Chance to Rest and Recharge
A bye week is a week during the season when WVU does not have a game. It’s listed on the WVU football schedule just like the other weeks—even though no game is played.
This break can be very helpful. It gives:
- Injured players a chance to heal
- Coaches time to prepare for tough opponents
- Fans a break to catch their breath
Bye weeks usually fall around the middle of the season. It’s a built-in pause that helps the team finish strong.
TV Channels and Streaming: How to Watch WVU Football Games
Can’t make it to the stadium? No worries. You can still follow every game on the WVU football schedule from your couch or mobile device.
Common options include:
- ESPN, FOX, or ABC for national games
- FS1 for select Big 12 matchups
- ESPN+ or Big 12 Now for some non-conference games or those with regional coverage
- WVU radio network for live play-by-play
Before game day, always check broadcast times and which channel is airing the game. Times can change depending on rankings and other national TV schedules.
What Happens After the Regular Season? Bowl Games!
If WVU finishes with at least six wins, they can be chosen for a bowl game. This bonus game is often played in late December or early January.
Recent bowls WVU has played in:
- Liberty Bowl
- Guaranteed Rate Bowl
- Texas Bowl
- Camping World Bowl
Bowl games bring more national attention, more practices for young players, and a celebration to end the year. They’re a highlight of the schedule and something every team hopes to earn.
How the WVU Football Schedule Impacts Rankings
The WVU football schedule isn’t just for planning—it affects national rankings too. Beating top-ranked teams or winning on the road can push WVU higher in the AP Top 25 or College Football Playoff rankings.
Poll voters and computers look at:
- Strength of schedule (how hard the games were)
- Total wins and losses
- Margin of victory
- Where and when each game was played
That means even a “small” game can have big consequences. Every Saturday counts.
Tips for Following the Full WVU Football Schedule
To stay on top of each game:
- Download the official WVU Athletics app
- Bookmark the schedule at wvusports.com
- Follow @WVUfootball on Twitter/X and @wvumountaineers on Instagram
- Join Mountaineer fan pages and Facebook groups for updates
- Print a copy for your fridge or desk to stay organized
Keeping the schedule handy makes it easy to plan your Saturdays and follow along all season.
FAQs
1. How many games are on the WVU football schedule?
The regular season has 12 games, with an extra game added if WVU qualifies for a bowl game.
2. When does the WVU football season start and end?
The season kicks off in early September and usually ends in late November unless WVU qualifies for postseason play.
3. Where can I find the official WVU football schedule?
Visit wvusports.com or follow WVU Football on social media for official updates.
4. How long has WVU been in the Big 12 Conference?
WVU joined the Big 12 Conference in 2012 and has been competing against top programs ever since.
5. Can the WVU football schedule change after it’s released?
Yes. Game times and TV channels can change. Weather or other factors can also affect the schedule.
6. What is the biggest rivalry on the WVU football schedule?
The Backyard Brawl vs. Pitt is considered the biggest and most emotional rivalry when scheduled.
Conclusion
Following the WVU football schedule is more than tracking wins—it’s about being part of something bigger. It’s the thrill of kickoff, the chants of “Let’s Go Mountaineers,” and the pride that follows every play, win or lose.
Whether you’re watching from the stands in Morgantown, streaming from home, or following along from another state, keeping up with the schedule means staying connected to the team, the university, and Mountaineer Nation.
So hang that schedule on your wall, circle your favorite games, and get ready for a season full of heart, effort, and unforgettable moments.
Let’s Go Mountaineers!
