While it’s never a good to plan on the downfall of an opponent, the reality is Neal Brown and the West Virginia Mountaineers caught a big break ahead of their Week 3 matchup that will make that game easier for WVU.
According to a University of Pittsburgh release, Panthers running back Rodney Hammond Jr. has been declared ineligible for the 2024 season. There was no reason given. Hammond remains a member of the team and is allowed to practice.
“Running back Rodney Hammond Jr. has been declared ineligible for 2024 season game competition,” the release states. “Hammond remains a member of the program and is permitted to practice with the team.”
Entering his senior season, Hammond Jr. was set to take the bulk of the workload for the Panthers in 2024. Last season, the Virginia native led the team in rushing yards with a total of 118 carries for 547 yards and four touchdowns while averaging 4.6 yards per carry.
West Virginia starts its season on Saturday vs. Penn State in one of the most-anticipated match ups in Week 1 of the college football season. The two teams met last season in Happy Valley where the Nittany Lions won the game 38-15.
Saturday’s kick off is set for 12:00 p.m. EST from Morgantown.
