Rich Rodriguez Returns to West Virginia as Head Coach After 17 Years

Rodriguez acknowledges past mistakes and expresses optimism for his second tenure with the Mountaineers.

Rich Rodriguez was officially reintroduced as West Virginia University's head football coach during a high-profile event attended by thousands of fans and alumni.
Rodriguez admitted that leaving West Virginia for Michigan in 2007 was a mistake, calling the decision a pivotal learning experience in his career.
The coach signed a five-year contract averaging $3.75 million annually, with performance-based incentives included in the deal.
Rodriguez addressed past controversies, including NCAA violations at Michigan and unsubstantiated allegations during his tenure at Arizona, with WVU's athletic director affirming his accountability and growth.
The event featured a celebratory atmosphere, with remarks from ESPN personality and former player Pat McAfee, who expressed confidence in Rodriguez's ability to lead the team to future success.