UPDATE: Just moments ago, former West Virginia University quarterback Curt Cignetti achieved an extraordinary milestone, guiding Indiana University to its first-ever national championship. The dramatic victory capped off a flawless 16-0 season and marks a significant moment in college football history.
As fans across the nation celebrate, the achievement resonates deeply with the Mountaineer community. Many are reflecting on what might have been had Cignetti returned to his alma mater. Could it have been WVU hoisting the trophy? This Cinderella story amidst the chaos of college athletics ignites hope for Mountaineers fans looking for resurgence.
Cignetti’s journey is particularly remarkable. Following his tenure as a quarterback at WVU from 1979 to 1982, he carved out a coaching career that saw him excel at multiple institutions, including a standout stint at James Madison University, where he led the Dukes to a stunning 52-9 record over five seasons. His success at Indiana has sparked conversations about the potential for other WVU alumni to thrive in coaching roles.
Curious about which other former Mountaineers have made their mark in football coaching? Here’s a look at the top 10 notable WVU alumni who have transitioned into successful coaching careers:
10. Garin Justice – After playing offensive line for the Mountaineers from 2002 to 2006, Justice quickly turned to coaching, eventually becoming a respected offensive line coach at multiple institutions, including SMU.
9. Gene Corum – A guard in the 1940s, Corum had a mixed record as head coach at WVU but led the team to a remarkable 8-2 season in 1962.
8. Doc Holliday – A former linebacker, Holliday achieved great success at Marshall University, including a 13-1 season in 2014 and six bowl victories.
7. Tommy Bowden – A wide receiver from 1973 to 1976, Bowden became head coach at Clemson University, achieving a remarkable 90-49 overall record.
6. Joe Stydahar – Drafted sixth overall in 1936, Stydahar had a challenging coaching career but won an NFL Championship in 1951.
5. Terry Bowden – A running back in the late ’70s, Bowden led teams at Auburn and North Alabama, ending with a notable 185-140-2 record.
4. Rich Rodriguez – As a former defensive back, Rodriguez has achieved nearly every accolade possible in coaching, including multiple conference titles and a legacy that positions him for future Hall of Fame induction.
3. Ben Schwartzwalder – A center in the early 1930s, Schwartzwalder became a legendary coach at Syracuse University, leading them to a national championship in 1959.
2. Curt Cignetti – With his recent achievements, Cignetti has solidified his place among the elite, showcasing the potential for WVU alumni to shine on the national stage.
1. Fielding Yost – Known as “Hurry-Up,” Yost’s legacy includes multiple national titles with Michigan, demonstrating the rich history of success stemming from WVU.
As the accolades continue to pour in for Cignetti and his team, the spotlight is now on other Mountaineer alumni who aspire to achieve similar heights. The narrative of triumph against the odds resonates, encouraging fans and aspiring coaches alike.
Expect further developments in the coaching ranks, as more WVU alumni push towards their own milestones. For now, the Mountaineer community proudly celebrates Cignetti’s historic win, proving that dreams can indeed become a reality in college football.
