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It’s Ridiculous,’ ‘Worst Defense in College Football’ — Rich Rodriguez, Zac Alley Confront West Virginia’s Defensive Woes After Arizona

West Virginia’s defensive struggles reached a new low Saturday as the Mountaineers surrendered 52 points to Arizona in a 52-31 loss at Milan Puskar Stadium, marking the most points allowed in a regulation game at the venue since 2018. The Wildcats, playing without four starting receivers, dominated with 482 total yards and eight plays of 20-plus yards, six of which came after halftime.

Head coach Rich Rodriguez expressed frustration, calling the defense’s inability to stop big plays “ridiculous,” while a seasoned fan described this unit as the worst he’s ever witnessed. West Virginia’s defense, already ranked 133rd nationally in yards allowed per game, failed to contain Arizona’s offense, which included quarterback Noah Fifita’s 341-yard, three-touchdown performance and receiver Isaiah Mizell’s 183-yard, two-score outing.

The Mountaineers’ offense managed 522 yards and 30 first downs but turned the ball over twice in the first half, including a lost fumble returned for a touchdown by Arizona safety Lee Molette III. Despite the offensive effort, Rodriguez acknowledged the defense’s poor play created pressure on the offense to score on nearly every drive, contributing to the team’s third straight loss (3-3, 0-3 in Big 12 play).

Despite the loss, Rodriguez has not replaced defensive coordinator Zac Alley, who called the game from the press box.

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