Burks

Even playing at home, the mostly-unknown Mountaineers against a mostly-polished bunch of Nittany Lions finds people wary of any pre-game celebrating.

Penn State and its don’t-beat-yourselves offense and crisp defense against the run against WVU’s experienced offensive line and polished backfield of quarterback Garrett Greene and running backs Jahiem White and CJ Donaldson, Jr.

Penn State relies heavily on its overall depth. West Virginia wants to counter with a reliable group of starters who can stay healthy, stay hydrated and not make game-shattering mistakes.

Will the kicking game be a decisive factor? Will any field goals sway the outcome of a close game?

Donaldson

The Nittany Lions always bring an attitude that chafes any and all opponents. “You people are not Ohio State or Michigan. We will find a way to beat you if the game is close into the fourth quarter. But we don’t expect it to be that close or that much in doubt in the last quarter.”

Drew Allar is Penn State’s quarterback. He is always looking for his tight end or multiple tight ends on many plays.

Wyatt Milum is the most decorated from WVU’s vaunted offensive line.

As has become the custom in college football, transfers are now all-important.

The Nittanies lost a significant group that left and have brought in at least four starters.

Greene

The Mountaineers now have corners Garnett Hollis (Northwestern) and Ayden Garner (Duquesne) and linebacker T.J. Jackson (Troy).

Aubrey Burks has gotten more notice than any other defensive returnee and linebacker Trey Lathan is a necessary force.

What will the midday heat mean? Will a positive start be necessary to keep the Mountaineers on course?

The so-called bookmaking experts have labeled Penn State an 8.5 point favorite.

Season openers have a way of showing too many unforeseen trouble spots. Too many penalties or a string of turnovers.

Lathan

West Virginia was 8-4 with its last regular season. But it lost its season opener at Penn State. The Nittanies were 10-2, but watched from the outside when the four-team playoffs took place.

The two teams have history. And most of it favors Penn State, when Joe Paterno was its long-time head coach.

Will it be “Here we go again” this season? Or will it be close, maybe even heart-stopping?

It’s just the first game for both. But it’s certainly more than an ordinary game for West Virginia.

Milum

White