On Saturday, West Virginia University will honor one of its all-time greats, Pat White, by retiring his jersey number, 5. This momentous occasion recognizes White's extraordinary contributions to college football during his tenure with the Mountaineers, where he established himself as a standout quarterback.
Pat White's college career at West Virginia was nothing short of spectacular. Over four seasons, he led the Mountaineers to a remarkable record of 35 wins against just 8 losses, culminating in a bowl victory at the end of each season. His dual-threat capability was evident as he amassed 6,049 passing yards and an impressive 4,480 rushing yards. Notably, despite the fact that sacks count as negative rushing yardage for quarterbacks, White still managed to average 6.5 yards per carry, showcasing his exceptional athleticism and ability to evade defenders.
During his time at West Virginia, White's playmaking ability was a constant source of excitement and admiration. He combined for a staggering total of 103 touchdowns, a testament to his versatility as both a passer and a runner. NFL analyst Devin McCourty praised White's skill set, stating, "He was the guy that you thought you had a good game plan for... Then the moment came to make the play on him, and it never happened. He made you miss or he made the great throw against good coverage. He was unstoppable." This highlights not only White's talent but also his impact on the game during his college career.
White was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2009 NFL Draft, being the 44th overall pick. At that time, the league was beginning to embrace the concept of running quarterbacks, making White's unique skill set appealing to NFL teams. However, his professional career did not unfold as hoped. He participated in 13 games during his rookie season, primarily in a backup role, before suffering a severe head injury that sidelined him for the remainder of his time in the NFL.
After his stint with the Dolphins, White briefly played in the United Football League (UFL) and the Canadian Football League (CFL), and he had a short-lived contract with the Washington NFL team. Despite his challenges in the professional realm, White's legacy in college football remains intact. His achievements at West Virginia have solidified his status as a generational talent in the sport.
The jersey retirement ceremony serves as a reminder of White's incredible journey and the lasting impact he had on college football. As fans gather to celebrate his accomplishments, they will reflect on the electrifying plays and unforgettable moments that defined his career in Morgantown. This recognition not only honors White but also inspires future generations of athletes to strive for greatness on and off the field.
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